The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia sanctioned UGA’s Hitesh Handa and Ron Orlando as Regents’ Entrepreneurs during its meeting on Feb. 11.
This accolade recognizes faculty members who have effectively turned research into marketable innovations. Initially awarded for a period of three years with a chance for renewal, the title comes with a one-time cash prize of $10,000. Handa’s and Orlando’s appointments have increased the tally of UGA Regents’ Entrepreneurs to five.
“This honor underscores the significant influence UGA researchers have in converting scientific advancements into practical solutions,” stated Chris King, interim vice president for research. “Drs. Handa and Orlando embody the essence of innovation, not only propelling their individual fields forward but also fostering economic development within the state and enhancing the lives of everyday Georgians through their entrepreneurial initiatives.”
Hitesh Handa
Handa, an associate professor and Distinguished Faculty Fellow in the College of Engineering and director of the Biointerface Translation and Engineering Center, has achieved notable advancements in medicine through his contributions to biomedical engineering. His studies are centered on creating nitric oxide-releasing biomaterials that help avert infections and blood clots often associated with implanted medical devices.
He has co-established two startups, including his ongoing enterprise, Nytricx Inc., and holds eight granted patents with an additional 25 in progress. Over the last two years, he has successfully obtained more than $5.5 million in federal commercialization grants from agencies such as the Department of Defense, Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, and the National Institutes of Health.
Handa has been recognized as a Senior Member of the National Academy of Inventors and was awarded UGA Entrepreneur of the Year in 2021.
In addition to his research, Handa actively participates in UGA’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, mentoring students and startups while engaging in industry events like the Georgia Bio Life Sciences Summit.
“I am profoundly thankful to my mentors, mentees, supportive colleagues, and staff, collaborators, UGA’s leadership, Innovation Gateway, and my family for their unwavering support and dedication in making this achievement possible,” expressed Handa. “Being awarded this title is an incredible privilege that emphasizes the importance of our collective efforts and drives me to continue striving for excellence. I am dedicated to improving health care by bridging the divide between clinicians and researchers.”
Ron Orlando
Orlando holds dual appointments at the Complex Carbohydrate Research Center and the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences department of biochemistry and molecular biology.
His research is concentrated on examining glycoproteins and glycation, offering vital perspectives on viral infections and conditions such as cancer and diabetes.
Throughout his career, Orlando has co-founded three firms — BioInquire, GlycoScientific, and PhotoChem/GenNext — which introduce pioneering research tools and technologies to the marketplace. His enterprises have garnered $17.6 million in commercialization grant funding, produced over $4.5 million in sales and contracts, created nearly 60 jobs, and led to the development of more than 100 new products.
Orlando was the first individual at UGA elected to the National Academy of Inventors and also the university’s inaugural Entrepreneur of the Year, receiving that honor in 2010. In 2024, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Association of Biomolecular Resource Facilities.
“Being honored with this distinction is genuinely humbling. There are countless individuals I wish to acknowledge, including my students (both past and present), various colleagues, fellow faculty, administrators, and most importantly, my wife and children,” remarked Orlando. “I appreciate UGA’s support for entrepreneurship, which has enabled me to convert several UGA discoveries into viable solutions for the advancement of society.”
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