Research matters to
The Arkansas Research Alliance (ARA) invests in strategic research talent recruitment, retention, and recognition to generate scientific and engineering breakthroughs that support statewide economic development.
About ARA
Founded in 2008, Arkansas Research Alliance is a 501(c)3 organization governed by a Board of Trustees comprised of chancellors from Arkansas research universities and chief executives from companies across the state.
Operating as a public-private partnership, ARA envisions an advanced Arkansas economy fueled by robust and collaborative university research talent and capabilities.
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ARA Academy Members
ARA Board of Trustees
Research Equipment and Expertise
Recent News
ARA Recruits Innovators Across the Strongest Industries in the State
ARA Academy Inducts Three New ARA Innovation Scholars to Its Esteemed Membership The Arkansas Research Alliance (ARA) has added three new members to the ARA Academy, strengthening the state’s growing momentum as a center for world-class research and discovery. Inducted as ARA Innovation Scholars, the honorees were specifically recruited to the state by their host … <a href="https://aralliance.org/arkansas-research-alliance-recruits-innovators-across-the-states-strongest-industries/">Continued</a>
Posted: January 20, 2026
ARA Project Scope Broadens Its Scope
What if AI-powered robots could relieve workforce burdens on the nation’s fresh berry farmers? Can you imagine using sustainable packaging created from rice hulls, or enjoying a dramatic increase in battery life? How can medical implants see significant efficacy just by reducing biofilm formation? And what is biofilm formation anyway? Arkansas Research Alliance (ARA) endeavors … <a href="https://aralliance.org/ara-project-scope-broadens-its-scope/">Continued</a>
Posted: October 28, 2025
ARA Adds Three Powerful Voices for Research to Its Board of Trustees
Little Rock, AR 8/2025 – The Arkansas Research Alliance (ARA) announced today the addition of three new members to the organization’s Board of Trustees: Dr. Anthony Graham, Chancellor, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB); Phillip Poston, Chief Development Officer, Hytrol Conveyors; and Jamie Pafford-Gresham, President and CEO, Pafford Medical Services. “Building a more competitive … <a href="https://aralliance.org/ara-adds-three-powerful-voices-for-research-to-its-board-of-trustees/">Continued</a>
Posted: August 29, 2025