AAMU Joins National Conversation on Boosting DoD-Academic Collaboration

Alabama A&M University faculty added their voices to a distinguished panel of experts at the Department of Defense (DoD) SciTechCONNECT Networking Event May 12 at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville. The event aimed to ignite strategic partnerships across academia, small business, and government by spotlighting new tools for collaboration and research funding within the DoD’s science and technology ecosystem.

SciTechCONNECT, launched in December 2024, is a new federal platform designed to empower researchers and innovators by simplifying access to funding and collaboration opportunities. According to the DoD, the initiative was created to “empower innovators to turn bold ideas into solutions that strengthen national security.”

Evelyn Kent, Director of the DoD HBCU/MI Program and Outreach, introduced the platform’s capabilities through a live demonstration. She showcased a market research tool intended to help institutions and companies identify funding prospects and streamline engagement with defense programs.

Alabama A&M University faculty members Dr. Rami Bommareddi, Professor of Physics, and Dr. Satilmis Budak, Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, joined Christopher Udall, Managing Director of the HudsonAlpha AgTech Accelerator, for a dynamic panel discussion. The conversation was moderated by Jason Preisser, Senior Vice President of Federal Programs at the Applied Research Institute.

Drawing from their academic experience, AAMU’s faculty highlighted practical strategies for partnering with the Department of Defense. Bommareddi focused on the intricacies of proposal writing and urged attendees to position their research in ways that align with DoD priorities. Budak shared insights on how faculty and students at HBCUs like Alabama A&M can contribute meaningfully to national security through innovative research.

Udall emphasized that the DoD is increasingly open to collaborating with non-traditional companies and academic institutions that offer fresh perspectives.

The SciTechCONNECT event allowed AAMU faculty to engage directly with federal program leaders, industry innovators, and fellow researchers committed to advancing science and technology in the national interest. It also reinforced the University's growing role as a key player in defense innovation.

(Photo L-R) Jason Preisser, Christopher Udall, Dr. Satilmis Budak, Dr. Rami Bommareddi