UA Little Rock Faculty Inducted Into Arkansas Research Alliance Academy
Two University of Arkansas at Little Rock faculty members have been inducted into the Arkansas Research Alliance (ARA) Academy, a distinction recognizing leading researchers whose work is driving innovation and economic growth across the state.
Dr. Anindya Ghosh, professor of chemistry and associate dean of the Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, and Dr. Philip Huff, associate professor of computer science and director of the Cyberspace Operations Research and Education Center (CORE), were among six researchers selected.
The ARA Academy represents leading researchers from universities across the state and has contributed more than $1 billion to Arkansas’s economy. Members are advancing industry-focused research in key areas such as advanced manufacturing, energy, cybersecurity, and sustainable design.
Ghosh, one of the nation’s leading researchers in green chemistry, said the recognition reflects the university’s strong and growing research environment.
“I’m honored to be inducted into the Arkansas Research Alliance Academy,” Ghosh said. “ARA does an outstanding job of supporting research through funding and by connecting researchers with the right resources and partnerships to move ideas forward. This recognition motivates me to push that work forward in ways that benefit Arkansas while preparing students for meaningful careers.”
His work in green chemistry, catalysis, and materials science focuses on practical, sustainable solutions that reduce pollution, support clean energy, and create more environmentally responsible materials.
Huff said he is excited to be part of a community working to expand research opportunities across Arkansas.
“I appreciate ARA’s commitment to advancing research and innovation across Arkansas, and I’m honored to be part of a community working to expand those opportunities,” Huff said. “Through this connection, the CORE Center can collaborate more closely with industry to keep our cybersecurity and AI research grounded in real-world needs. This supports UA Little Rock’s mission to provide high-impact student research experiences that deliver real benefits to our communities.”
Huff leads the CORE Center and focuses on advancing cybersecurity for critical infrastructure while building partnerships between academia and industry. He is also the chief scientist and co-founder of Bastazo, an Arkansas-based cybersecurity startup that uses artificial intelligence to strengthen cybersecurity defenses and help organizations prioritize and address vulnerabilities.
Through their work, UA Little Rock researchers continue to create opportunities for students while contributing to innovations that benefit communities and industries across Arkansas.