The University of Mississippi (UM) and General Atomics are starting an “on-campus collaborative effort” that will focus on acoustic sensing and navigation technologies for UUVs, in an effort to help Department of Defense operations in deep-sea areas.

Starting on Nov. 1, GA Electromagnetic Systems Group (GA-EMS) will work out of UM’s research facility, Insight Park, and GA-EMS will look to fortify the relationship established with UM and its National Center for Physical Acoustics, so that it can advance the investigation of “acoustic-based techniques for navigation and control of unmanned underwater systems.”

“We are so pleased to have General Atomics plug into the university community through Insight Park,” says Josh Gladden, UM interim vice chancellor for research and sponsored programs.

“Over the course of the past year, we have identified multiple research groups on campus that could partner with GA-EMS to help find solutions for modern needs of the Department of Defense. I’m sure as our partnership continues to strengthen, both GA and UM will find this a mutually beneficial relationship.”

William Nicholas, Insight Park’s assistant director, says that this partnership between GA-EMS and UM makes sense being that GA-EMS has previously worked with universities to advance acoustic and infrasound technologies.

“Our location provides GA-EMS with close proximity to the National Center for Physical Acoustics and other key schools, colleges and centers at the University of Mississippi,” Nicholas says. “We are especially excited to provide our students with opportunities to intern with such an innovative company.”

Hank Rinehart, business lead for surveillance and sensor systems at GA-EMS, says that company officials are looking forward to being on UM's campus, so that they can continue “researching and developing critical technologies designed for real-world applications.”

“The broad spectrum of talent at Ole Miss and the focus on engineering disciplines is a great match for GA-EMS,” Rinehart comments. “We are excited to work with students and faculty in an environment that not only advances game-changing technologies, but also fosters community growth and entrepreneurship.”