UGA Faculty Members Honored for Research Advancements and Entrepreneurial Success
UGA faculty members recognized for transforming research into innovative applications
The University System of Georgia Board of Regents approved UGA’s Hitesh Handa and Ron Orlando as Regents’ Entrepreneurs at its Feb. 11 meeting.
This honor acknowledges faculty members who have successfully transformed research into commercial applications. Initially granted for three years with the possibility of extension, the designation includes a one-time $10,000 cash award. Handa’s and Orlando’s appointments bring the total number of UGA Regents’ Entrepreneurs to five.
“This recognition highlights the profound impact that UGA researchers have in translating scientific discovery into real-world solutions,” said Chris King, interim vice president for research. “Drs. Handa and Orlando exemplify the spirit of innovation, not only advancing their respective fields but also driving economic growth in the state and improving lives of everyday Georgians through their entrepreneurial ventures.”
Transforming Research into Medical Innovations
Hitesh Handa, associate professor and Distinguished Faculty Fellow in the College of Engineering, has made significant medical innovations through his work in biomedical engineering. His research focuses on developing nitric oxide-releasing biomaterials that prevent infections and blood clots sometimes caused by implanted medical devices.
Handa has co-founded two startups including his current venture, Nytricx Inc., and has eight issued patents with 25 more pending. In the past two years, he successfully secured more than $5.5 million in federal commercialization grants from agencies including the Department of Defense, Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority and National Institutes of Health.
He has been named a Senior Member of the National Academy of Inventors and UGA Entrepreneur of the Year in 2021.
Beyond his research, Handa actively contributes to UGA’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, mentoring students and startups while engaging in industry events like the Georgia Bio Life Sciences Summit.
“I am immensely grateful to my mentors, mentees, supportive colleagues and staff members, collaborators, UGA’s leadership, Innovation Gateway and my family for their unwavering support and dedication in making this achievement possible,” said Handa. “Receiving this title is a tremendous honor that highlights the significance of our combined efforts and motivates me to keep pursuing excellence. I am committed to enhancing health care by bridging the gap between clinicians and researchers.”
Advancing Critical Research in Health Sciences
Ron Orlando, with joint appointments in the Complex Carbohydrate Research Center and the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences department of biochemistry and molecular biology, focuses on analyzing glycoproteins and glycation, providing critical insights into viral infections and diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
Over the years, Orlando has co-founded three companies — BioInquire, GlycoScientific, and PhotoChem/GenNext — that bring cutting-edge research tools and technologies to market. His ventures have secured $17.6 million in commercialization grant funding, generated over $4.5 million in sales and contracts, created nearly 60 jobs, and resulted in more than 100 new products.
Orlando was the first person at UGA elected to the National Academy of Inventors as a Senior Member as well as the university’s first Entrepreneur of the Year, receiving the award in 2010. In 2024, the Association of Biomolecular Resource Facilities honored him with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
“Receiving this distinction is truly an honor. There are many people I want to thank, including my students (past and present), various colleagues, fellow faculty, administrators, and mostly my wife and children,” said Orlando. “I am grateful that UGA encourages entrepreneurship, which has allowed me to translate several UGA discoveries into practical solutions for the betterment of society.”
In conclusion, the entrepreneurial success of UGA faculty members Hitesh Handa and Ron Orlando showcases the university’s commitment to translating groundbreaking research into tangible solutions that benefit society. Their innovative approaches in medical and health sciences have not only garnered recognition but have also significantly contributed to the economic growth of the state of Georgia. As these faculty members continue to push the boundaries of scientific discovery, they serve as inspirational figures within the academic and entrepreneurial communities. Their achievements highlight the importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry, ultimately leading to advancements that improve the lives of individuals and drive innovation forward. Explore more about their work and the impact they have made on the field of research and entrepreneurship to gain a deeper appreciation for the transformative power of academic collaboration and innovation.
