I-MRSEC graduate fellowship offers research innovation opportunity

I-MRSEC Call for MRSEC Graduate Fellowship position 2026

The Illinois Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (I-MRSEC), funded by the National Science Foundation, invites applications for a Graduate Fellowship position. The goal of this Graduate Fellowship is to bring new people, new perspectives, and scientific ideas into the Center that are aligned with current IRG research scopes.

The current I-MRSEC research focuses on:
(1) Directing energy and information using 2D strain-scapes,
(2) Photoionics: controlling ion transport and defects with light.

The I-MRSEC has funding to support one research assistantship for a graduate student, aimed at supporting an innovative, independent research project that aligns with I-MRSEC's focus and promoting active engagement with I-MRSEC. This fellowship provides an opportunity to explore emerging research questions, collaborate with the I-MRSEC community, and contribute new ideas that advance the Center’s mission. Towards this end we welcome projects that complement existing IRG research themes. This award consists of 1 year of support as a research assistant, with the possibility of renewal for an additional year. The recipient is expected to fully participate in I-MRSEC activities, along with their faculty mentor.

Submission details:  

1. Project description should be 1-2 pages in length and highlight the work’s innovation, how the project would contribute to the mission of the I-MRSEC, and include promoting education, outreach, and external collaborations (including in national labs or industry).  

2. CV from the student; and 

3. A letter of support from the supervising PI(s), which also describes mentoring and support for the student.  

Eligibility:  

The student must be a current or incoming University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign graduate student in a relevant field.  

To apply:  

Please submit the application package as a PDF file to I-MRSEC: mrsec-info@illinois.edu by September 15, 2026.