Michael Odell

Michael R.L. Odell, Ph.D., is a Professor of STEM Education and holds the endowed Roosth Chair at the University of Texas at Tyler with joint appointments in the College of Education and Psychology and the College of Engineering. He serves as Co-Coordinator for the Ed.D. in School Improvement Program and Co-Director of the UTeach Program. His educational background includes a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction/Science Education from Indiana University, an M.A.T. in Science Education from UT Dallas, and a B.A. in Geoscience from UT Dallas.

Dr. Odell's research focuses on STEM education, engineering education, school improvement, and education policy. He has pioneered initiatives like the UTeach Replication program (doubling STEM teacher production), UT Tyler University Academy charter schools (laboratory schools), and the Ingenuity Center (a designated Texas STEM center). His recent publications predominantly analyze innovative educational models, project-based learning frameworks, and equity-focused school reforms.

He has received significant recognition, including the Roosth Endowed Chair, and secured over $60 million in grants and development funding. His work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration across education and engineering, as evidenced by his leadership in establishing laboratory schools and research centers.