STLE Booser, McCoy, and Klaus Tribology Scholarships
Offered by Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE)
About This Scholarship
Tribology is the science of friction, wear, and lubrication, and it sits behind everything from engine oil to wind turbine bearings. The Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers funds three student research awards each year: the E. Richard Booser Scholarship for undergraduates, the Jeanie S. McCoy Scholarship for women in undergraduate or graduate programs, and the Elmer E. Klaus Fellowship for graduate students.
Starting with the 2027 program, STLE is picking two winners for each award, so six students will share the money. Booser and McCoy winners receive $2,500 each, and Klaus fellows receive $3,000 each. Part of the award is paid after winners submit a research report, which STLE publishes in its TLT magazine.
These awards are built for students already doing, or about to start, a tribology research project with a faculty advisor. Selection leans on the advisor's recommendation and the relevance and quality of the research, while the McCoy award also weighs an essay and extracurricular activities. Free STLE student membership gives access to the application system.
Eligibility
- Booser Scholarship: undergraduate in an engineering or science program with tribology-focused research
- McCoy Scholarship: female undergraduate or graduate student pursuing an engineering or science degree relevant to tribology
- Klaus Fellowship: enrolled in a graduate engineering or science program when the research begins
- Past winners of one award may apply for another only if the research is substantially different; no one can win the same award twice
- Applications are completed through an STLE account; student membership is free
How To Apply
- Create a free STLE student membership account to log in to the application system
- Open the 2026-2027 Booser, McCoy, or Klaus application from the STLE Scholarship and Fellowship Awards page (applications are posted October 15)
- Prepare a description of your tribology research and secure a faculty advisor's letter of recommendation (McCoy applicants also submit an essay)
- Submit by December 1, 2026; winners are notified January 30
- If selected, submit your research report by the December 31 deadline to receive the balance of the award
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do STLE's student awards pay?
The Booser and McCoy scholarships pay $2,500 each and the Klaus Fellowship pays $3,000. Beginning with the 2027 program, STLE selects two recipients for each award.
Is the full award paid up front?
No. STLE sends the balance of each award after the winner submits a research report, which is published in TLT magazine.
Do I need to pay for STLE membership?
No. STLE offers free student membership, and you log in with those credentials to complete the application.