Description
The HUman Factors & erGOnomics (HUGO) Lab at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, is actively searching for motivated Ph.D. students to join their research team. Hosted by the Department of Mechanical Engineering, these fully funded positions are set to begin in the Spring or Fall of 2027.
This program is an excellent opportunity for postgraduate students who want to explore how humans and artificial intelligence interact, improve industrial safety, or develop advanced digital twin systems. You will be part of a collaborative environment dedicated to finding real-world engineering solutions while receiving comprehensive financial support for your studies.
Research Areas
As a Ph.D. researcher in the HUGO Lab, you will work on impactful projects across several innovative fields:
- Enhancing human-AI and human-machine collaboration.
- Improving safety and ergonomics in industrial environments and vehicles.
- Creating human-centered designs tailored for the transportation and energy sectors.
- Studying human variability and the dynamics of human-robot interactions.
- Developing digital twin systems, specifically for pipeline safety and control rooms.
- Engaging in comprehensive product design and development.
Funding and Financial Support
This Ph.D. program provides excellent financial backing, allowing you to focus entirely on your academic and research goals without financial stress.
- A complete funding package that covers 100% of your tuition fees and provides a living stipend is guaranteed for your first two years.
- Financial support is expected to continue for the duration of your Ph.D. program, provided you maintain satisfactory academic progress and consistent research performance.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for this research opportunity, applicants need to meet the following academic and technical qualifications:
- Hold a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in engineering or a closely related discipline.
- Maintain a minimum undergraduate engineering GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0.
- Show a strong interest in ergonomics, applied research, and human-centered systems.
- Possess excellent analytical and communication skills.
- Preferred Qualifications: Prior experience with data analysis, experimental methods, MATLAB programming, and statistical tools (like ANOVA or regression) is highly valued. A history of publishing research or presenting at academic conferences is also a major advantage.
Standardized Test Requirements
Prospective students must meet the general admission standards set by the University of South Carolina's Graduate Program:
- GRE scores are required, with a minimum Verbal score of 150 and a Quantitative score of 155.
- International applicants must prove English proficiency by submitting a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80 or an IELTS score of 6.5.
Important Deadlines
Be sure to track these application deadlines based on your intended start date and residency status:
- Spring 2027 Intake: October 1, 2026 (International Students) | October 15, 2026 (Domestic Students).
- Fall 2027 Intake: May 1, 2027 (International Students) | May 15, 2027 (Domestic Students).
Application Process
Applying to the HUGO Lab requires a direct outreach step followed by a formal university application.
First, email your application materials directly to the incoming lab director, Dr. Jangwoon Park, at Jangwoon.park@sc.edu. Your email should include a one-page cover letter, your current CV, and a one-page statement outlining your research interests.
If you are shortlisted, the lab will contact you to arrange a virtual or in-person interview. Following a successful interview, you will need to complete the formal admission process through the USC Graduate Program. This step requires submitting official transcripts, three recommendation letters, a personal statement, and your resume. International students should also check the university's specific guidelines for any additional compliance steps.
