PhD Scholarship at Rutgers University: Dr. Peixuan Zheng is recruiting highly motivated PhD students to join her lab at Rutgers University–New Brunswick (Department of Kinesiology and Health) starting in Spring/Fall 2026. This full-time, on-site position focuses on groundbreaking research in physical activity measurement, cognition, cardiovascular function, and exercise interventions, with an emphasis on aging, chronic conditions, and wearable technology application.
PhD Scholarship at Rutgers University – Dr. Peixuan Zheng’s Lab
Designation
PhD Candidate in Kinesiology and Health Science
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | PhD Student |
| Program | Department of Kinesiology and Health, Rutgers University–New Brunswick |
| Funding Type | Research/Teaching Assistantship (tuition, stipend, health insurance, and other expenses) |
| Location | New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA |
| Start Date | Spring/Fall 2026 |
| Application Deadline | December 1, 2025 |
Research Areas
- Physical Activity Measurement & Wearable Devices
Advancing techniques to assess physical activity in real-world conditions using cutting-edge wearable technology. - Cognition and Cardiovascular Function
Investigating the interplay between physical activity/inactivity, cognition, cardiovascular health, and physical fitness. - Exercise & Behavioral Interventions
Developing interventions to improve health outcomes, especially for individuals with aging-related challenges or conditions like multiple sclerosis. - Aging and Chronic Conditions
Examining the impact of physical activity on aging populations and those with chronic conditions to develop rehabilitative strategies.
Location
Rutgers University–New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.
The university is ranked among the top public research institutions in the U.S., offering cutting-edge facilities, diverse faculty, and a vibrant academic-industry ecosystem. Its proximity to major cities like New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. enriches educational and leisure opportunities.
Eligibility/Qualifications
- Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Exercise Science, Public Health, Neuroscience, Psychology, Biomechanics, or a related field.
- Strong enthusiasm for health sciences research and ability to engage in independent learning.
- Preferred Qualifications:
- Prior research experience in areas including physical activity measurement, exercise intervention, aging, rehabilitation, or clinical populations.
- Knowledge of programming or statistics software (e.g., R, Python, MATLAB) is considered a plus.
Description
Selected PhD students will undergo rigorous training in research methodologies, including data collection and advanced statistical analysis. Opportunities include publishing in scientific journals, presenting at academic conferences, and participating in collaborations across disciplines (e.g., public health, neuroscience, rehabilitation, biomedical engineering). Furthermore, students will gain hands-on experience working with aging and clinical populations, particularly in designing and implementing behavioral interventions.
As part of this position, students will receive comprehensive financial support through research and/or teaching assistantships, which include:
- Full tuition coverage.
- A competitive monthly stipend.
- Health insurance.
- Funding for academic travel and conferences.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare the following documents (in the specified order) and compile them into a single PDF file:
- CV/Resume
- Personal Statement: A brief (1-2 pages) statement describing your research experiences, interests, and career goals.
- Unofficial Academic Transcripts
- Additional materials (optional) that could strengthen your application.
Application Submission:
- Subject line: “PhD Application Fall 2026 [Your Name]”
- Send the application by email to: peixuan.zheng@rutgers.edu
Last Date to Apply
Applications will be reviewed immediately as they are received. The final deadline for submission is December 1, 2025.
Explore this extraordinary opportunity to advance scientific knowledge in kinesiology, public health, and rehabilitation, and to make a meaningful impact on individuals’ health and well-being!
