Michigan Tech Graduate School excited to see three of our students’ hard work recognized on a national stage, being awarded the National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship (GRFP).
The GRFP is one of the most competitive honors in the country, designed to support students who have the potential to become lifelong leaders in STEM. For our winners, this means more than just a prestigious title. It provides three years of funding to dive deep into the research the winners are passionate about.
Fall 2026 Fellowship Winners
Molly Vander Werp
- Program: PhD in Forest Science
- Advisors: Dr. Kristin Brzeski and Dr. Sarah Hoy
Josh Dafoe
- Program: PhD in Computer Science
- Advisor: Dr. Bo Chen
Lenka Doskocil
- Program: PhD in Applied Ecology
- Advisor: Dr. Rodney Chimner
Behind every great researcher is a team of supportive mentors. We want to extend a huge “thank you” and congratulations to Dr. Kristin Brzeski, Dr. Sarah Hoy, Dr. Bo Chen, and Dr. Rodney Chimner. Applying for the GRFP is an incredibly intense process, often requiring months of drafting, revising, and late nights. The dedication these advisors show in helping their students navigate this path is what makes Michigan Tech such a special place to pursue a graduate degree. With their mentorship these students are able turn ambitious ideas into award-winning research.
Molly, Josh, and Lenka, Congratulations! This award is a direct result of your late nights, your persistence through difficult data, and your vision for the future of science. We can’t wait to see the impact your work will have in the coming years.
Interested in applying for the NSF GRFP next cycle? The Graduate School offers workshops and peer-review sessions every year to help you put your best foot forward. Keep an eye on our Funding Opportunities page for upcoming dates!