What's Happening?
Wilkes University's Synergistic Opportunities for Academic Research (SOAR) Center has appointed four inaugural faculty fellows for the 2026-2027 academic year. The SOAR Center, established in 2025 through
a National Science Foundation (NSF) Enabling Partnerships to Increase Innovation Capacity (EPIIC) grant (Award #: 2519880), aims to enhance the university's research capabilities, expand strategic partnerships with industry and community organizations, and increase opportunities for externally funded research and innovation. The selected fellows are Professor David R. Carey (Computer Science), Professor Mohsen Ghamari (Mechanical Engineering), Professor Asif Abdullah Khan (Electrical Engineering), and Professor Jeffrey A. Stratford (Biology and Earth System Sciences). These faculty members were chosen by independent external reviewers based on their intellectual merit, alignment with the SOAR mission, potential for partnerships, and ability to secure grants.
Why It's Important?
The appointment of these faculty fellows is a significant step for Wilkes University in strengthening its research and innovation culture. By supporting faculty in developing external collaborations and pursuing competitive research funding, the SOAR Center aims to create meaningful experiences for students and deepen the university's connections with industry and the broader community. This initiative is crucial for regional economic development, as it fosters the translation of academic research into practical applications, particularly in areas like AI-enabled diagnostics for manufacturing, thermal-fluid engineering, advanced materials for sensors, and environmental conservation. The program's focus on building partnerships with regional manufacturers, defense organizations, and conservation groups will help address local needs and create a pipeline for skilled graduates, thereby boosting the regional economy and workforce development.
What's Next?
Throughout their fellowship, the four faculty members will engage in professional development, mentorship, research development, and networking activities, working towards measurable outcomes. Professor Carey will focus on AI-enabled diagnostics for manufacturing, seeking partnerships with regional manufacturers and defense organizations. Professor Ghamari will expand his research in thermal-fluid engineering, aiming to collaborate with local industries. Professor Khan will utilize AI for discovering advanced materials for sensors, pursuing partnerships in various sectors. Professor Stratford will work to reinvigorate the Wilkes Institute for Environmental Science and Sustainability (WIESS), making the university a resource hub for local conservation efforts. These efforts are expected to lead to new collaborative research projects, external funding proposals, and increased student engagement through internships and joint mentoring, ultimately enhancing the university's research profile and community impact.
Beyond the Headlines
The SOAR Center's initiative at Wilkes University reflects a growing trend in higher education to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world application. By actively fostering partnerships with industry and community organizations, universities can ensure their research addresses pressing societal and economic needs. This model not only secures external funding but also enriches the educational experience for students, preparing them for careers that demand interdisciplinary collaboration and practical problem-solving. The focus on areas like AI, advanced materials, and environmental science also highlights the university's commitment to contributing to critical national priorities. This approach can serve as a blueprint for other regional institutions looking to maximize their impact and relevance in a rapidly evolving technological and economic landscape.
