University of Michigan Scholarship 2026 – Fully Funded PhD in Artificial Intelligence for Ecosystem Monitoring

The University of Michigan Scholarship 2026 is now open for ambitious researchers who want to pursue a fully funded PhD in the United States. This competitive program provides one of the strongest PhD funding packages nationwide, covering full tuition fees, an annual stipend of $41,308, and comprehensive health insurance.

Students selected for this opportunity will embark on a 5-year fully funded PhD program at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Guided by leading faculty, they will explore groundbreaking research at the intersection of artificial intelligence, ecology, and environmental monitoring.

About the Scholarship

This PhD scholarship is hosted at the School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) under the supervision of Dr. Lauren Gillespie. Scholars will engage in research projects focused on AI-driven ecosystem monitoring and ecological forecasting, addressing some of the most pressing environmental challenges of the Anthropocene era.

The program combines expertise in AI, conservation science, ecological data analysis, and decision-making tools, creating an interdisciplinary platform where students can contribute to real-world environmental solutions.

Scholarship Summary

• Country: United States
• Host Institution: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
• Study Level: PhD
• Duration: 5 years
• Funding Type: Fully Funded
• Stipend: $41,308 per year (~$3,442/month)
• Additional Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance (GradCare)
• Deadline: 1 December 2025

Benefits of the University of Michigan Scholarship 2026

PhD students benefit from one of the most generous funding packages in the U.S.:

• 📘 Full tuition coverage for the entire program
• 💰 Annual stipend of approximately $41,308 (Graduate Student Instructor rate)
• 🏥 Comprehensive health insurance (GradCare)
• 🔬 Research and teaching assistantships, with potential fellowship support
• 🎓 Option to pursue dual-degree programs in sustainability and related disciplines

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the University of Michigan Scholarship 2026, applicants must:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (computer science, ecology, environmental science, data science, GIS, or related disciplines).
• Demonstrate a strong interdisciplinary background and interest in AI, environmental monitoring, or conservation research.
• Show evidence of intellectual curiosity, problem-solving ability, and academic independence.
• Previous research experience is preferred but not mandatory.
• Meet all admission requirements for the SEAS PhD program.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to apply for the University of Michigan PhD Scholarship 2026:

Step 1: Express Your Interest

• Fill out the Google Form provided by Dr. Gillespie’s lab to indicate interest.
• Applications begin review in October 2025 and continue on a rolling basis.

Step 2: Submit the Official Application

• Apply through the University of Michigan SEAS PhD portal.
• Ensure all required documents (CV, transcripts, research proposal, test scores if needed) are submitted.
• Deadline: December 1, 2025 (Fall 2026 intake).

Step 3: Reach Out for Questions

• Applicants may contact Dr. Lauren Gillespie ([email protected]) for inquiries regarding the lab or program.

Research Focus Areas

This scholarship emphasizes AI for large-scale ecosystem monitoring, integrating:

• 🌱 Ecological forecasting and biodiversity studies
• 🤖 AI and machine learning methods for environmental data
• 🌍 Conservation decision-making in regions such as the Neotropics and California
• 🔗 Interdisciplinary collaborations across computer science, ecology, and earth sciences

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the University of Michigan Scholarship 2026?
A fully funded PhD program in AI-driven ecosystem monitoring, offering tuition, stipend, and health insurance for 5 years.

2. Who leads this program?
The scholarship is supervised by Dr. Lauren Gillespie, Assistant Professor at SEAS, University of Michigan.

3. What kind of research does it support?
Projects involve AI method development, ecological data analysis, biodiversity monitoring, and conservation decision-making.

4. Who can apply?
Applicants with backgrounds in computer science, ecology, data science, GIS, or related fields. Prior research experience is preferred but not required.

5. Is the program fully funded?
Yes. It includes tuition coverage, a stipend (~$41,308/year), and health insurance for five years.

6. Is there a dual-degree option?
Yes. Students may pursue joint PhD programs in sustainability and other disciplines.

7. When is the deadline?
The official deadline is 1 December 2025. Early submission of the interest form is encouraged.

8. How can I contact the program?
Reach out directly to Dr. Gillespie via email ([email protected]).

Final Thoughts

The University of Michigan Scholarship 2026 is an extraordinary opportunity for students who want to combine artificial intelligence with environmental sustainability research. With full funding, a competitive stipend, health coverage, and access to leading faculty, this program equips scholars to make meaningful contributions to both academia and real-world conservation.

📌 Deadline: December 1, 2025 – Apply early for priority consideration!