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Computational Research Assistant Jobs in Michigan

This is a University-year appointment at the Assistant Professor level. The expected start date is ... research in areas of complex systems including (but not limited to) mathematical and computational ...

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Computational Research Assistant information

How does a computational research assistant typically collaborate with principal investigators and other team members during a research project?

Computational Research Assistants often work closely with principal investigators (PIs), postdoctoral researchers, and other team members to design, implement, and analyze computational experiments. They are responsible for developing scripts, managing datasets, and ensuring the reproducibility of results. Regular meetings and progress updates are common, and assistants are expected to communicate findings clearly and troubleshoot technical issues collaboratively. This role requires both independent initiative and a strong team-oriented approach to meet research objectives efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computational research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computational Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, proficiency in programming languages like Python or R, and a background in mathematics, statistics, or computer science. Familiarity with data analysis tools, version control systems (such as Git), and experience using high-performance computing environments or relevant software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication help you collaborate with research teams and interpret complex results. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing accurate, reliable research outcomes and supporting innovative scientific investigations.

What is a computational research assistant?

Computational Research Assistants are professionals who support scientific and academic research projects by applying computational methods, programming, and data analysis techniques. They often work with researchers to develop models, run simulations, analyze large datasets, and assist in the interpretation of results. Their work is essential in fields such as biology, physics, social sciences, and engineering, where complex data and computational tools are required to conduct research. Typically, they have strong skills in programming languages like Python, R, or MATLAB, and possess a background in the relevant scientific discipline.

What is the difference between Computational Research Assistant vs Data Analyst?

AspectComputational Research AssistantData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Data Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Statistics, Data Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, or research-focused organizationsBusiness, finance, healthcare, or marketing sectors
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic and research institutions, government agenciesCorporations, consulting firms, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The Computational Research Assistant and Data Analyst roles share similarities in data handling and analytical skills, but differ mainly in their focus. Computational Research Assistants typically work in research settings, supporting scientific projects with programming and modeling, while Data Analysts focus on interpreting data to inform business decisions. Both roles require strong technical skills and relevant education, but their work environments and primary objectives differ.

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Computational Research Assistant jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Computational Research Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Computational Research Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Research Lab Specialist Associate

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago


University Of Michigan rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

161st of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Mission Statement
Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally. Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.
Responsibilities*
Biomedical data integration, database development, and computational research:
  • Integrate clinical, laboratory, imaging, genetic, biospecimen, and multi-omics data generated across multiple research studies into a centralized and well-organized research data environment.
  • Develop and maintain standardized approaches for data organization, annotation, quality control, and documentation.
  • Work with the Principal Investigator, bioinformatics specialists, data scientists, statisticians, and institutional core facilities to develop computational and artificial intelligence-assisted approaches for identifying novel biological patterns, disease subtypes, biomarkers, and therapeutic targets.
  • Prepare deidentified or appropriately coded datasets for statistical, bioinformatic, and machine learning analyses.
  • Assist with interpretation of research findings in the context of human physiology, metabolic disease, incretin biology, bariatric surgery, and hormonal regulation.

Biorepository management and specimen-data coordination:
  • Maintain and organize the laboratory biorepository, including accurate coding, tracking, inventory management, quality assurance, and timely retrieval of research specimens.
  • Ensure that specimens are linked accurately to the appropriate research protocol and coded research data.

Laboratory Research Activities:
  • Process human blood and other biospecimens according to approved protocols.
  • Maintain accurate laboratory records and document specimen-processing procedures
  • Prepare specimens for genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, metabolomic, immunologic, and other downstream analyses.
  • Work with laboratory personnel and institutional core facilities to optimize specimen-processing and analytical workflows.

Translational Research and Collaborative Development:
  • Assist in identifying research questions that connect clinical observations with biospecimen, imaging, genetic, and molecular data.
  • Participate in multidisciplinary research meetings and contribute to study design, data review, interpretation, and project planning.

Required Qualifications*
  • At least one year of research experience involving diabetes, obesity, endocrinology, bariatric surgery, gastrointestinal physiology, or a related area of metabolic research.
  • Strong computer skills and demonstrated ability to organize complex biomedical information.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and scientific communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with clinicians, laboratory investigators, research coordinators, data scientists, trainees, and institutional core facilities.
  • Demonstrated commitment to learning new laboratory, computational, and analytical methods.

Desired Qualifications*
  • Prior research experience in lipodystrophy or other rare metabolic diseases.
  • Experience working with human-subjects research data, clinical phenotyping, or biospecimens.
  • Experience with clinical and multidimensional biomedical data integration.
  • Familiarity with at least one (R, Python, SQL), REDCap, electronic research databases, or related computational tools.
  • Familiarity with artificial intelligence, machine learning, or pattern-recognition approaches in biomedical research.

Why Join Michigan Medicine?
Michigan Medicine is one of the largest health care complexes in the world and has been the site of many groundbreaking medical and technological advancements since the opening of the U-M Medical School in 1850. Michigan Medicine is comprised of over 30,000 employees and our vision is to attract, inspire, and develop outstanding people in medicine, sciences, and healthcare to become one of the world?s most distinguished academic health systems. In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. Work at Michigan Medicine and become a victor for the greater good.
What Benefits can you Look Forward to?
  • Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage effective on your very first day
  • 2:1 Match on retirement savings

Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .
Background Screening
Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Job Detail
Job Opening ID
281245
Working Title
Research Lab Specialist Associate
Job Title
Research Lab Specialist Assoc
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Exempt
Organizational Group
Medical School
Department
MM Metabolism, Endo & Diabetes
Posting Begin/End Date
8/06/2026 - 8/13/2026
Career Interest
Research

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About University of Michigan

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The University of Michigan (U-M), based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is one of America's most esteemed institutions in higher education. Established in 1817, it presides in the industry of education and research, providing a range of services including undergraduate, graduate, and professional education programs. Complementing this is an extensive research activity that has significantly contributed to various fields, from healthcare to engineering, humanities to sports. Upholding its mission "to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values", U-M consistently ranks among the top universities globally, a testament to its tradition of excellence in learning and research, and a deep commitment to innovation and discovery.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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