The Human Performance & Sport Science Center serves the University of Michigan through the promotion and amplification of sport science research and education to generate new knowledge to inform human health and performance.
ESSI is now HPSSC!
Learn more about the new branding and vision for the Human Performance and Sports Science Center.
What is HPSSC?
HPSSC supports comprehensive research, education, and outreach programs with access to a wealth of resources and expertise from:
19 schools and colleges
thousands of athletes at all ages and abilities
a world-class health system
state-of-the-art academic and athletic facilities
Latest News
“Through ESSI, we are exploring the potential of emerging areas of research, leveraging investments with existing university research, evaluating new ideas and approaches, and accelerating the progress of new ideas to practice.”
U-M Vice President for Research
Foot fitness is crucial to better stability and strength
Whether you're a trained athlete, a recreational runner, or enjoy the occasional stroll around your neighborhood to promote better health, your feet play a pivotal role in long-term strength and mobility. Dr. Alexandra DeJong Lempke, Clinical Assistant Professor of...
ESSI teams up with Samsung for smartwatch research
The University of Michigan Exercise & Sport Science Initiative has launched a research partnership with Samsung Electronics Co. to explore smartwatch technology in an effort to help runners manage their health and physical activity by providing more reliable and...
“This is a great opportunity for our coaches, trainers, and student athletes to work with faculty and industry partners to probe new approaches to optimizing both individual and team performance.”
Warde Manuel
U-M Donald R. Sheperd Director of Athletics
HPSSC was welcomed into the Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance by their partnerships team as an official partner in February 2023. Wu Tsai is excited to have HPSSC as a partner in their shared mission to discover the scientific principles of optimal human performance. HPSSC’s expertise and resources will strengthen their network, and they are confident that partnering will accelerate the Alliance’s progress and the field of human performance research more broadly.

3
New undergraduate courses
$1.7 million
Seed funding for interdisciplinary research
10+
Major industry contracts