Jeffrey Fessler

Jeffrey Fessler is a Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at the University of Michigan. His research group focuses on interdisciplinary imaging science, including theoretical and applied work in MRI, iterative optimization algorithms, and computational imaging methods. He emphasizes collaborative advising with co-advisors, ensuring students benefit from multiple perspectives. Students in his group are expected to progress toward independence while aligning their research with funded projects.

Research expectations include mastering peer-reviewed literature and contributing to theoretical or applied projects. Authorship is determined by contribution, with first authors typically being primary contributors. Students often serve as Graduate Student Instructors (GSIs) post-quals and are encouraged to pursue internships, often leading to post-graduation employment.

Group meetings occur weekly, featuring student-led discussions on research or seminal papers. Funding for conferences (e.g., ICASSP, ISMRM) comes from grants, discretionary funds, and student professional society memberships. Fessler prioritizes work-life balance, advocating for vacations and personal time while maintaining productivity goals.

He fosters open feedback through regular one-on-one meetings and annual progress reports. His advising philosophy blends academic rigor with mentorship, aiming for thesis completion within 5 years, contingent on achieving expert-level mastery in their research topic.