Spark Hubs Ignite Franklin College’s Future of Research Innovation and Collaboration

The Franklin College of Arts and Sciences has developed an ecosystem of collaborative working groups called Spark Hubs. These dynamic think tanks leverage the College’s strengths and expertise in multidisciplinary, convergent instincts along with innovation. Spark Hubs emerge organically or are strategically launched to develop new lines of discovery-driven research and engagement; respond quickly to emerging opportunities that fall outside existing units or collectives; and create pathways for exchange across the College and broader institution. This amplifies the power of the “&” in the arts and sciences. Hubs include:  

Applied Ethics will address the landscape of ethics of AI and other broad scholarly lines.  

Creativity, Art +Technology is an emerging hub grounded in statewide momentum across art, technology, and innovation to cultivate research, collaborations and opportunities.  

Critical Languages for Global Security is an emerging hub that emphasizes strategic language instruction to support Georgia’s expanding international trade and foreign direct investment, with flagship programs in Russian and Portuguese.    

Critical Minerals and Energy focuses on Georgia’s leadership in economic geology, critical minerals, and carbon capture and storage, leveraging the Georgia Geological Survey and workforce training.   

Health Innovation and Bioinformatics is an emerging hub that uses large data sets, AI, and adaptive modeling to improve health outcomes. It will focus on electronic medical records, rural healthcare access, and interdisciplinary collaborations.   

Quantum Science is an emerging hub focused on quantum physics, chemistry and computing through partnerships like QuaNTRASE.  

Semiconductors and CHIPS is an emerging hub that leverages UGA’s advanced cleanroom and microscopy facilities to advance semiconductor research, workforce development, and education. Its mission closely aligns with the federal CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, landmark legislation designed to strengthen America’s semiconductor supply chain, expand domestic manufacturing capacity, and invest in workforce development.    

Space Sciences is a well-established hub that drives innovation across planetary science, space medicine, autonomous systems, and space policy. Working in close collaboration with the Georgia Institute of Technology, the hub integrates cutting-edgeresearch with practical applications to elevate Georgia as a national leader in multidisciplinary space exploration.   

Sustainability, Security and Resiliency hub builds upon significant strengths within the College and leverages an array of expertise in sustainability, weather, climate, resiliency, and connectivity to key societal challenges.  

Synthetic Biology connects diverse life sciences — such as genetics, microbiology, and plant biology — through the lens of generative bio-design and genetic engineering to create technologies, products, and services.   

Therapeutic Innovation and Drug Discovery leverages the Office of Research working group advancing therapeutic research for human and veterinary medicine, aligning with UGA’s School of Medicine to streamline discovery and development.   

Veterans’ Mental Health integrates neuroscience, social sciences, and the arts to train professionals, to support veterans and their families, and to enhance community awareness addressing brain injuries, PTSD, and suicide prevention.   

Together, these Spark Hubs embody Franklin College’s commitment to innovation, discovery, rapid response, and transformative engagement. By uniting disciplines, accelerating research, and forging new pathways of collaboration, the hubs amplify the College’s role as a catalyst for innovation across the state of Georgia and beyond. With each hub tackling pressing challenges — from quantum science to veterans’ mental health — Franklin College is not only shaping the future of scholarship but also driving impact that resonates for society. 

For more information on hub leadership, engagement, and goals, contact Dr. Marshall Shepherd, Associate Dean for Research, Scholarship, and Partnerships.