ULRI

UL Research Institutes Announces James J. Hudgens, Ph.D., as New President and Chief Executive Officer

James (Jim) J. Hudgens, Ph.D.
President and CEO, UL Research Institutes

EVANSTON, Ill. (June 16, 2025) — UL Research Institutes, a global leader in safety science research, announced today the appointment of James (Jim) J. Hudgens, Ph.D., as president and chief executive officer, effective June 23.

Hudgens is a highly experienced leader in advanced technology with a proven track record of strategic transformation and growth, with more than 25 years of experience in national security research. Most recently, Hudgens was senior vice president and director of Georgia Tech Research Institute, where he oversaw more than 3,000 employees and increased revenue nearly 90% during his five-year tenure.

ULRI Chairman George Williams declared, “We are delighted to welcome Jim as our new president and CEO. Jim brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record of leadership in research organizations, and we believe his strategic vision and leadership will inspire our teams and propel us to world-class success.”

Under Hudgens’ leadership, ULRI will prioritize advancing the organization’s long-term strategy and enhancing internal and external partnerships and collaboration. His vision includes increasing global awareness of the organization’s pivotal role and unwavering dedication to its safety science mission and attracting talent across the different research areas ULRI serves. Hudgens’ leadership will be key in guiding the organization’s growth and shaping the next chapter of ULRI’s mission to make the world a safer, more sustainable place.

“I would also like to recognize Dr. Chris Cramer for his instrumental leadership while he served as interim president,” continued Williams. “Chris has demonstrated the highest level of integrity and commitment to our mission and helped us advance our vision and strategy over the last 18 months. After this transition, Chris will continue his leadership of the research institutes and offices as senior vice president and chief research officer. We look forward to his continued contributions to ULRI as he returns his full-time focus to this critical role.”

On his appointment, Hudgens commented, “ULRI has a long-standing history and commitment to safety science. This commitment, as well as the drive to build a safer, more sustainable future for all, aligns with my passion for security research. I am incredibly honored to step into the role of president and CEO of ULRI and lead such an innovative and engaged organization. I would also like to express gratitude for the warm welcome I have received and convey my excitement about the future of ULRI.”

Prior to joining Georgia Tech Research Institute, Hudgens directed the Threat Intelligence Center at Sandia National Laboratories, where he led the Information Operations and Proliferation Assessments programs for the National Security Program Division. Hudgens earned his Ph.D. in ceramic engineering and a B.S. in ceramic engineering from Iowa State University, won awards for his leadership and technical innovation, and has authored numerous publications and presentations.

About UL Research Institutes

UL Research Institutes is a nonprofit research organization dedicated to advancing public safety through scientific discovery. Since 1894, our research has advanced our mission toward a safer, more secure, and sustainable future. Focused on global risks from fire mitigation and air quality to safe energy storage and digital privacy, we conduct rigorous independent research, analyze safety data, and partner with experts to uncover and act on existing and emerging risks to human safety.

Discover more at UL.org.