Graduate School Newsblog

Nominations open for the 2025 CGS/ProQuest Distinguished Dissertation Award

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Nominations are now open for the 2025 Council of Graduate Schools (CGS)/ProQuest Distinguished Dissertation Award. Please submit nominations to the Graduate School no later than 4pm, May 28, 2025, following our online instructions. This year, nominations are being accepted from dissertations in the fields of:

  1. Biological and Life Sciences
  2. Humanities and Fine Arts

Michigan Tech may nominate one student in each field. PhD students who have completed all of their degree requirements between July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2025, are eligible. The fields of competition for 2026 will be Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Engineering; and Social Sciences.A nomination packet must be submitted by the department chair or college dean to our google form no later than 4 p.m. May 28, 2025. Contact Debra Charlesworth (gradschool@mtu.edu) if you have any questions about the competition.

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Submission and Formatting 101: Master the Dissertation, Thesis, and Report Process

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Students who are completing a dissertation, thesis, or report are invited to join the Graduate School to learn about the resources available to them to assist in scheduling their defense, formatting their documents, and submitting their documents.  In one afternoon, you can learn everything you need to be successful and complete your degree in a timely fashion!  Faculty and staff who assist students with submissions are also welcome to attend.  Attend the entire event, or stop in for the seminar that interests you.

  • When: Wednesday, May 21, 2025, 2 – 4:30pm (see detailed schedule below)
  • Who: Students completing a dissertation, thesis or report; faculty and staff who assist students with submission
  • Where:Virtual and in-person (Admin 404 – limit for room is 30); (register to attend online and receive participation instructions)
  • Registration: Please register to receive handouts via email or attend online. The seminar will be available online as well as on campus.

If you are unable to join us, the event will be taped and available online after the event. The previous semester’s seminars are always available online.

Information on submitting, formatting, and more can be found online for dissertations and theses or reports.

Detailed schedule

  • 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. – Submission 101
    Learn what is required to submit your document to the Graduate School and the deadlines for the upcoming semester.  Best for students who are completing their degree this semester or next semester.
  • 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. – Formatting 101-103
    Learn about templates, checking your document with Adobe Acrobat, and how to use copyrighted materials. You’ll also learn where resources are on the web page so you can learn more about the topics that interest you.
  • 4:00 – 4:30 p.m. – Questions
    Have a question that hasn’t been answered yet? We’ll be available to answer any additional questions you have
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Fall 2025 Finishing Fellowship Nominations Open

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Applications for Fall 2025 finishing fellowships are being accepted and are due no later than 4p.m. on June 4, 2025 to the Graduate School. Please email applications to gradschool@mtu.edu.

Instructions on the application and evaluation process are found online. Students are eligible if all of the following criteria are met:

  1. Must be a PhD student.
  2. Must expect to finish during the semester supported as a finishing fellow.
  3. Must have submitted no more than one previous application for a finishing fellowship.
  4. Must be eligible for candidacy (tuition charged at Research Mode rate) at the time of application.
  5. Must not hold a final oral examination (“defense”) prior to the start of the award semester.

Finishing Fellowships provide support to PhD candidates who are close to completing their degrees. These fellowships are available through the generosity of alumni and friends of the University. They are intended to recognize outstanding PhD candidates who are in need of financial support to finish their degrees and are also contributing to the attainment of goals outlined in The Michigan Tech Plan. The Graduate School anticipates funding up to ten fellowships with support ranging from $2000 to full support (stipend + tuition). Students who receive full support through a Finishing Fellowship may not accept any other employment. For example, students cannot be fully supported by a Finishing Fellowship and accept support as a GTA or GRA.

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Finishing Fellowship – Palas Kamlakar Borkar – Summer 2025

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Palas Kamlakar Borkar, PhD in Chemical Engineering, 2025

I am sincerely grateful to the Graduate School, the Dean, and the Awards Advisory Panel for selecting me for the Finishing Fellowship. This support is an incredible honor as I enter the final phase of my doctoral studies. I would also like to express my appreciation to my advisor, Dr. Timothy Eisele, for his support, guidance, and mentorship throughout my research journey. His continuous encouragement and insightful feedback have helped me navigate challenges.

My journey at Michigan Tech began in 2016 when I enrolled in the Master’s program in Chemical Engineering, which I completed in 2018. After gaining valuable experience outside academia, I returned in 2021 to pursue a PhD in Chemical Engineering with the ambition of expanding my expertise in research. My PhD research focuses on developing cost-effective bioleaching methods for manganese recovery from low-grade ores. This approach utilizes metal-reducing organisms and biomass to convert manganese into a soluble form, followed by selective precipitation. As part of this project, we developed a 200-liter capacity process in the lab to demonstrate manganese production at the pilot scale. We are currently in the process of scaling this technology for implementation at an industrial, commercially viable scale.

In addition to my core research, I have worked on extracting iron from iron ore tailings using bioleaching and have contributed to battery recycling projects aimed at recovering critical metals such as manganese, nickel, and cobalt. My PhD research contributes to the development of cleaner, more economically viable metallurgical processes and supports the global transition toward sustainable resource use. Looking ahead, I hope to continue advancing technologies for critical mineral recovery, bio-based manufacturing, and energy-efficient extraction.

During the fellowship period, I plan to focus entirely on completing the final stages of my dissertation, preparing my findings for publication, and fulfilling all degree requirements. I am excited to complete my PhD and take the next steps in advancing my career.

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Fall 2025 CSCHF Graduate Assistantship Nominations Open

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Pre-proposals for Fall 2025 CSCHF Graduate Assistantships are being accepted and are due no later than 4pm, May 20, 2025 to the Graduate School. Students who best meet the foundation’s criteria will be invited to submit a full application, which will be due on June 25, 2025.  Instructions on the pre-proposal, full application, and evaluation process are found online. Students are eligible if all of the following criteria are met:

  1. Must be a PhD student conducting a research or outreach project that will promote and/or improve the overall health of Houghton, Keweenaw, Baraga, and Ontonagon communities.
  2. Must be 2 years after starting the graduate program at the time of application.
  3. Must not be a prior recipient of a PHF or CSCHF Graduate Assistantship.
  4. Preference will be given to applicants with long-standing local connections to Houghton, Keweenaw, Baraga, or Ontonagon county.

Previous recipients of a CSCHF Graduate Assistantship are not eligible to reapply.

Priority will be given to students originally from Houghton, Keweenaw, Baraga, or Ontonagon counties. Non-resident students and international students are encouraged to apply if their health research is applicable to health needs and job shortages of our local community (obesity research, rural health, medical informatics, drug delivery and lab testing, physical therapy, etc.).

These assistantships are available through the generosity of the Copper Shores Community Health Foundation. They are intended to recognize outstanding PhD talent in health-oriented research areas. Applicants should be a catalyst for promoting and improving the overall health of Houghton, Keweenaw, Baraga, and Ontonagon communities through one of the following:

  • health research and technology development
  • health education or preventive and wellness initiatives
  • rural healthcare access, informatics, and assessment of care

Students who receive full support through a CSCHF Graduate Assistantship may not accept any other employment. For example, students cannot be fully supported by a CSCHF Graduate Assistantship and accept support as a GTA or GRA.

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Finishing Fellowship – Ashley Hawke – Summer 2025

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Summer 2025 Finishing Fellowship Award Winner Ashley Hawke
Ashley Hawke, PhD in Integrative Physiology, 2025

My journey at Michigan Tech first began in 2012, when I came to Tech for my undergraduate degrees. In 2016, I graduated with a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering and a B.S. in Exercise Science. During my time as an undergraduate, I was heavily involved in human subject research and quickly found a passion in being directly involved throughout the entire research process—from developing a protocol, to recruiting and meeting with subjects, to collecting various measurements, to analyzing results and disseminating the findings. Following my undergrad, I continued on to complete a thesis and obtain my M.S. in Exercise Science, with a focus on human biomechanics.

In Fall of 2021, I returned to the Department of Kinesiology and Integrative Physiology and began my PhD while also working full-time as a biomedical engineer conducting occupational biomechanics research. My work and dissertation focuses on reducing musculoskeletal disorders (i.e., back injuries) among healthcare workers who have to manually transfer and move patients without the use of assistive equipment. Specifically, I am investigating the biomechanical, physiological, and subjective responses to various patient handling interventions, how those responses relate to musculoskeletal disorder development, and how healthcare worker acceptability of patient handling interventions and emerging technologies can impact implementation of new equipment. By identifying effective interventions and barriers to implementing these devices, hospitals and other healthcare facilities can use these results to help reduce worker injuries, potentially reduce employee turnover, and improve patient care and safety.

I would like to sincerely thank the Graduate School and the Graduate Dean Awards Advisory Panel for selecting me for the Doctoral Finishing Fellowship, which will allow me to focus on finishing up my research. I would also like to thank my advisors, Dr. Steven Elmer and Dr. Kelly Kamm, for their continued encouragement, guidance, and mentorship throughout my degree, as well at the KIP Department for their support throughout my degree. My dissertation is just the beginning of my journey in making an impact in healthcare and I hope to continue doing so throughout my professional career.

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Summer 2025 Finishing Fellowship Winners

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The Graduate School is thrilled to announce the winners of the Summer 2025 Finishing Fellowship! This prestigious award recognizes the hard work and dedication of doctoral students in the final stages of their research. By providing financial support and valuable mentorship, the Finishing Fellowship empowers these exceptional scholars to complete their dissertations and make significant contributions to their fields of study. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and excited to see the impact of their research.

The following students have been selected to receive the 2025 Summer Fellowship:

  • Gustavo Bejar-Lopez
  • Md Mutasim Billah
  • Palas Borkar
  • Abid Danish
  • Shiwei Ding
  • Grace Dykstra
  • Ashley Hawke
  • Seth Kriz
  • Kenny Larsen
  • Dilka Liyana Arachchige
  • Aman Poovalappil
  • Raj Santhosh
  • Megh Raj Subedi
  • Kan Wang
  • Yuguang Wang

Learn more about the students listed above on our blog under Summer 2025 Finishing Fellowships.

Finishing Fellowships provide support to PhD candidates who are close to completing their degrees. These fellowships are available through the generosity of alumni and friends of the University. They are intended to recognize outstanding PhD candidates who are in need of financial support to finish their degrees and are also contributing to the attainment of goals outlined in The Michigan Tech Plan. The Graduate School anticipates funding up to ten fellowships with support ranging from $2000 to full support (stipend + tuition). Students who receive full support through a Finishing Fellowship may not accept any other employment. For example, students cannot be fully supported by a Finishing Fellowship and accept support as a GTA or GRA.

Congratulations to all the Summer 2025 Finishing Fellowship winners! We are excited to see what you accomplish in the coming months and years.

Find out more about the Finishing Fellowship and other awards available for graduate students at Michigan Technological University. You can also find additional funding information on our financial information webpage.

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Graduate Students Lexi Tater and Aritra Chakrabarty Honored with World Social Science Association Award

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The Graduate School is pleased to announce the well-deserved recognition of two outstanding graduate students, Lexi Tater and Aritra Chakrabarty, by the World Social Science Association for winning the Student Paper Award. This prestigious award, presented during the 67th Annual World Social Science Conference in Seattle, Washington (April 2-6, 2025), specifically recognizes the high quality of Lexi’s and Aritra’s research. This notable award acknowledges the thoroughness of their research and its capacity to develop insightful and compelling analysis in these vital areas.

Lexi Tater presented her research titled “Climate Planning and Energy Sovereignty Among Michigan’s Tribal Nations”. The exceptional quality and impact of Lexi’s work in the Sustainable Communities program highlight their dedication to rigorous research and their ability to produce insightful and compelling analysis that makes a meaningful contribution to the understanding of climate planning and energy sovereignty among Michigan’s Tribal Nations. 

Aritra’s compelling article, “Gender Equity through Renewable Energy Transition: Case Study of a Community Solar Program, India,” was honored for its significant contributions to the field and thoughtful examination of the crucial intersection between renewable energy transitions and gender equity within the context of an Indian community solar program.

The Graduate School is delighted to acknowledge the success of both Lexi Tater and Aritra Chakrabarty, and commends their dedication to valuable scholarly research. These awards highlight the impactful work being undertaken by graduate students at Michigan Technological University, supported by our dedicated faculty and staff.

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Celebrating Our Huskies: Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week

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Celebrating Our Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week

We’re excited to announce that Governor Whitmer has officially proclaimed April 7th through April 11th, 2025, as Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week in the state of Michigan. This significant recognition, championed by the Michigan Association of State Universities (MASU), shines a light on the crucial role and immense value that graduate and professional students bring to our universities and the entire state.

As we approach this special week, the Graduate School wants to take a moment to express our sincere pride in each and every one of our graduate and professional students. Their commitment to scholarship, tireless pursuit of knowledge through research, and dedication to mastering their chosen fields are truly commendable. We witness firsthand the late nights in the lab, the thoughtful discussions in seminars, and the innovative ideas our students bring to life. The accomplishments of graduate students, both big and small, contribute significantly to the vibrant intellectual environment of Michigan Tech and have a lasting impact.

Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week is a chance for the entire university community to acknowledge and celebrate the vital role that graduate students play in our community.

Read Gov. Whitmer’s full proclamation.

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Nominations Sought for KCP Future Faculty Fellowships

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Applications are being accepted for the KCP Future Faculty Fellowship, a program funded by the State of Michigan.  The purpose of the King-Chávez-Parks Future Faculty Fellowship Program is to increase the pool of academically and economically disadvantaged candidates pursuing faculty teaching careers in post-secondary education.  

Funding may begin in fall of 2025. Applications are due no later than 4pm on April 28, 2025.

Applicants will complete the following steps:

KCP fellowships provide students up to $20,000 (MS students) or $35,000 (PhD students) to pursue their degrees.  Funds may be used to support students, including faculty and staff, pursuing degrees at Michigan Tech.  For Michigan Tech students, the Graduate School and nominating department must also contribute matching funds to help support the student.

Complete information about eligibility criteria and materials needed for an application is available on our web page. Please note that applications will be submitted through the MILogin Citizens Portal. Questions about eligibility or the application procedure can be directed to Dr. Debra Charlesworth.

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