The Leverage Lab, led by Dr. DeLean Tolbert Smith at the University of Michigan–Dearborn (UM-Dearborn), is seeking highly motivated candidates for a fully funded 5-year Ph.D. position in Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE), focusing on Engineering Education Research (EER). The lab is dedicated to advancing scholarship that Co-Creates Inclusive Futures in STEM by integrating principles of Design, Equity, and Everyday Learning. This is an exceptional opportunity for aspiring scholars passionate about interdisciplinary inquiry at the intersections of engineering learning, human-centered design, equity-oriented methodologies, and education innovation. Students are officially admitted through the rigorous standards of the Rackham Graduate School of the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor but will be located and administered at the UM-Dearborn campus.
Leverage Lab PhD Scholarship 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | University of Michigan–Dearborn (UM-Dearborn) |
| Awarding Body | The Leverage Lab / Industrial & Systems Engineering |
| Degree Level | Ph.D. in Industrial and Systems Engineering |
| Duration | Fully Funded for 5 Years |
| Funding | Full Tuition, Competitive Stipend, Health Insurance |
| Field of Study | Engineering Education Research (EER) |
| Eligible Countries | All (International Students Welcome) |
| Key Criteria | Minimum Graduate GPA 3.5, Strong Programming/Math Skills, Commitment to Equity Research |
| Application Deadline | February 1st, 2026 |
Leverage Lab PhD Details
The research conducted within the Leverage Lab is critical, centering on improving access, broadening participation, and supporting identity development in STEM across formal and informal learning environments.
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Scholars will engage with projects that utilize qualitative, multimodal, human-centered, and data-driven methodologies to advance the field of engineering education as a scholarly discipline. The program leverages the close mentorship environment of UM-Dearborn while adhering to the rigorous academic standards of the Rackham Graduate School (UM-Ann Arbor).
Benefits and Specific Scholarship Award Tiers
The funding package is comprehensive, covering all major costs associated with doctoral study for five full years, allowing students to dedicate themselves entirely to research and professional development.
Tier 1: Core Financial and Health Support (Fully Funded 5-Year Position)
This tier covers the essential costs of tuition, living expenses, and health protection for the full duration of the PhD.
- Value: Full tuition coverage for all required coursework and research credits.
- Criteria: Provided to all admitted doctoral students for 5 years.
- Value: Competitive monthly stipend for living expenses.
- Criteria: Ensures financial stability, enabling full-time commitment to research.
- Value: Comprehensive health insurance.
- Criteria: Mandatory coverage throughout the 5-year funding period.
Tier 2: Research and Professional Development Support (GRA/GSI Opportunities)
This category focuses on providing hands-on training and resources essential for developing high-impact research careers.
- Opportunities to serve as a Graduate Student Instructor (GSI), providing valuable teaching experience.
- Opportunities to serve as a Graduate Research Assistant (GRA), directly supporting lab projects.
- Support for conference travel, allowing the presentation of research findings nationally and internationally.
Tier 3: Academic and Research Environment
These benefits highlight the institutional and systemic support provided to ensure academic success and interdisciplinary rigor.
- Support for professional development and additional research activities.
- Access to the University of Michigan’s extensive research ecosystem, including faculty expertise and interdisciplinary collaborations.
- A Ph.D. degree conferred under the rigorous academic standards of the Rackham Graduate School of the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor.
Eligibility Requirements for Leverage Lab PhD Position 2026
Highly competitive applicants should possess a strong academic background in a quantitative or technical field and demonstrate a clear commitment to equity-oriented research.
- Academic/Leadership:
- Must possess a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering, STEM education, computer science, or a closely related field.
- Required minimum graduate GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
- Must demonstrate strong preparation in mathematics and programming.
- Study Status:
- Must show evidence of research potential, curiosity, and persistence.
- Commitment to equity-oriented scholarship and motivation to engage in interdisciplinary research are essential.
- Visa Status: Open to international and domestic students interested in full-time doctoral study (location: UM-Dearborn, degree from UM-Ann Arbor).
- Program Admission: Candidates should align their disciplinary training with one of the three ISE research concentrations: Decision Science and Operations Research, Human Factors and Ergonomics, or Integrated Design and Manufacturing.
How to Apply for Leverage Lab PhD Position 2026 (Step by Step)
Prospective students are encouraged to connect with the Leverage Lab for more information before submitting their formal application to the Industrial and Systems Engineering Ph.D. program.
- Review Program Details: Thoroughly review the ISE Ph.D. program requirements (provided by UM-Dearborn and Rackham Graduate School) and the Leverage Lab’s research areas to ensure alignment.
- Contact the Lab: Prospective students are strongly encouraged to contact the Leverage Lab directly via email (LeverageLab@umich.edu) to express interest, share their CV, and discuss alignment with ongoing projects.
- Submit Formal Application: Complete and submit the formal Ph.D. application to the Industrial and Systems Engineering Ph.D. program through the University of Michigan’s application system, ensuring all required materials (transcripts, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation) are included.
- Await Review: The department and the Rackham Graduate School will review the application file, considering the applicant’s alignment with the Leverage Lab and overall academic profile for admission and funding.
Application Deadline: February 1st, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What degree will the student receive, and where is the program located?
The degree is a Ph.D. in Industrial and Systems Engineering conferred by the Rackham Graduate School of the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor, but the program is located and administered at UM-Dearborn.
2. What are the key financial components of the funding package?
The funding is a fully funded 5-year position that includes full tuition coverage, a competitive monthly stipend, and comprehensive health insurance.
3. What is the minimum required graduate GPA for competitive applicants?
Highly competitive applicants should demonstrate a minimum graduate GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
4. Who directs the Leverage Lab, and what is the lab’s main research focus?
The lab is directed by Dr. DeLean Tolbert Smith, and its main research focus is to Co-Create Inclusive Futures in STEM through the integration of Design, Equity, and Everyday Learning.
5. What are the three research concentration options within the ISE Ph.D.?
Students can apply their training in one of three concentrations: Decision Science and Operations Research, Human Factors and Ergonomics, or Integrated Design and Manufacturing.
6. What types of research methodologies are used in the Leverage Lab?
Research integrates qualitative, multimodal, human-centered, and data-driven methodologies, including machine learning and natural language processing.
7. Does the funding include opportunities for teaching or research assistantships?
Yes, the funding structure includes opportunities to serve as a Graduate Student Instructor (GSI) or a Graduate Research Assistant (GRA).
8. What academic background is required for admission?
Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering, STEM education, computer science, or a closely related field.
9. Should prospective students contact the lab before applying formally?
Yes, prospective students are strongly encouraged to contact the Leverage Lab via email (LeverageLab@umich.edu) to learn more and discuss their application alignment.
10. How long is the doctoral position guaranteed for?
The fully funded doctoral position is guaranteed for 5 years, enabling the student to dedicate full-time effort to their academic, research, and professional growth.
