Funded PhD Assistantship in Kinesiology: The University of Michigan, one of the top public research universities in the United States, has announced a funded doctoral student assistantship in its School of Kinesiology beginning Fall 2026.
This opportunity is led by Dr. Leah E. Robinson, professor and director of the Child Movement, Activity & Developmental Health (CMAH) Lab.
The assistantship offers tuition support, a stipend, and healthcare, making it a highly attractive option for students interested in child development, physical activity, and public health research
Faculty Bio and Research Focus
Dr. Robinson’s work is widely recognized and supported by over $20 million in external funding from organizations like the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Education, and the American Diabetes Association.
Her lab focuses on:
- Motor skill development in children
- Physical activity and health promotion
- Developmental health disparities in pediatric populations
This makes the assistantship an excellent fit for students interested in child health, motor skills, and exercise science.
The PhD Assistantship in Kinesiology Benefits
This graduate assistantship provides:
- A stipend
- Tuition support
- Healthcare coverage for fall, winter, and spring/summer terms
The position is renewable for up to four years, depending on satisfactory performance.
Preferred Qualifications for the PhD Assistantship in Kinesiology
Applicants should have:
- A Master’s degree in kinesiology, exercise science, public health, or a related field
- A competitive GPA in previous academic work
- Teaching experience or research in motor development, physical activity, or child health
Additional strengths include:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to thrive both independently and in teams
- Excellent communication skills
- High degree of accountability and attention to detail
Application Information for the PhD Assistantship in Kinesiology
Applications open September 1, 2025 and will be accepted on a rolling basis until December 1, 2025.
Required documents (combined in a single PDF):
- Cover letter (research interests, career goals, experiences)
- Current CV
- Writing samples
- Contact information for 3 references
Send applications here with the subject line: PhD position fall 2026.
Students must also apply for admission to the University of Michigan School of Kinesiology doctoral program.
Why Apply for This Assistantship?
- Work with a leading researcher in kinesiology and child health
- Gain access to a fully funded PhD program in the USA
- Secure long-term support (up to four years)
- Contribute to impactful research that improves children’s health outcomes globally
Summary
The University of Michigan doctoral assistantship in kinesiology is more than just a funded PhD, it’s an opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research on child development, motor skills, and public health.
With funding, mentorship, and world-class research facilities, this assistantship is an ideal path for graduate students committed to advancing the field of kinesiology and child health.