Why Now, Why UMAMI?

Manufacturing is undergoing a profound transformation driven by artificial intelligence, automation, supply chain disruptions, workforce transitions, and the urgent need for more sustainable production systems. At the same time, national policy and industry investment are increasingly focused on strengthening the competitiveness and resilience of U.S. manufacturing. Addressing these challenges requires new forms of collaboration that integrate technological innovation with insights from business, social science,  workforce development, and sustainability.

The University of Michigan is uniquely positioned to lead this effort. With world-class expertise spanning engineering, business, social science, and sustainability, paired with deep industry partnerships, U-M possesses the depth and breadth required to tackle manufacturing’s toughest challenges. Much like the ‘umami’ flavor, which is intensified through the synergy of complementary ingredients,  UMAMI was established to bring together U-M’s strengths and amplify their collective impact on manufacturing innovation and society.

What We Do

UMAMI advances manufacturing innovation through two complementary pillars: convergence research and a symbiotic translational ecosystem.

Convergence Research

UMAMI catalyzes convergence research that brings together engineering, business, social science, and sustainability to address complex manufacturing challenges. By integrating these perspectives, UMAMI helps develop manufacturing systems that are not only technologically advanced but also economically viable, environmentally responsible, and supportive of the workforce.

A Symbiotic Translational Ecosystem

UMAMI is building a new ecosystem that tightly connects fundamental research with real-world manufacturing challenges. In this model, researchers, students, and industry partnerswork together to translate discoveries into practical solutions while generating new questions that advance scientific understanding.

This ecosystem includes:

• Doctor of Engineering (DEng) in Manufacturing – A translational doctoral program where students work alongside PhD researchers to convert research discoveries into scalable industrial solutions.
• Manufacturing Work-Study Program – Paid on-campus opportunities for undergraduate and master’s students to contribute to industry-aligned projects, gaining hands-on technical and entrepreneurial experience.
• Deep Industry Collaboration – Partnerships with manufacturers ranging from startups and small manufacturers to global enterprises to jointly develop and test new manufacturing technologies and approaches.

Collaborating Units

UMAMI serves as a hub for collaboration among several leading units, including:

• College of Engineering (CoE)
• Ross School of Business
• School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS)
• Institute for Social Research (ISR)
• Economic Growth Institute (EGI)
• University of Michigan–Dearborn
• University of Michigan–Flint

How to engage with us

UMAMI welcomes collaboration with faculty, industry partners, and students who are interested in advancing manufacturing innovation.

Faculty
Faculty affiliates can participate in interdisciplinary research initiatives, contribute to industry collaborations, and help mentor students involved in translational projects.

Industry
Manufacturers, from startups and small manufacturers to global enterprises, can collaborate with UMAMI researchers to explore new technologies, develop prototypes, and address pressing production challenges.

Students
Students can participate in translational research projects, experiential learning programs, and industry-facing initiatives that provide hands-on experience with real manufacturing challenges.