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Exercise Research Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

McLaren

Exercise Physiologist

Bay City, MI · On-site

Advises patients about nutrition and ongoing exercise regimens; may teach classes and conduct research. * Provides quality, personalized evidence-based care and proven interventions. * Evaluates ...

McLaren USA

Exercise Physiologist

Bay City, MI · On-site

Advises patients about nutrition and ongoing exercise regimens; may teach classes and conduct research. * Provides quality, personalized evidence-based care and proven interventions. * Evaluates ...

McLaren Health Care

Exercise Physiologist

Bay City, MI · On-site

Advises patients about nutrition and ongoing exercise regimens; may teach classes and conduct research. * Provides quality, personalized evidence-based care and proven interventions. * Evaluates ...

McLaren Bay Region

Exercise Physiologist

Bay City, MI · On-site

Advises patients about nutrition and ongoing exercise regimens; may teach classes and conduct research. * Provides quality, personalized evidence-based care and proven interventions. * Evaluates ...

McLaren

Exercise Physiologist

Bay City, MI · On-site

Advises patients about nutrition and ongoing exercise regimens; may teach classes and conduct research. * Provides quality, personalized evidence-based care and proven interventions. * Evaluates ...

McLaren

Exercise Physiologist

Mount Pleasant, MI · On-site

Advises patients about nutrition and ongoing exercise regimens; may teach classes and conduct research. * Provides quality, personalized and evidence-based care and proven interventions. * Evaluates ...

McLaren USA

Exercise Physiologist

Mount Pleasant, MI · On-site

Advises patients about nutrition and ongoing exercise regimens; may teach classes and conduct research. * Provides quality, personalized and evidence-based care and proven interventions. * Evaluates ...

McLaren Health Care

Exercise Physiologist

Petoskey, MI · On-site

Advises patients about nutrition and ongoing exercise regimens; may teach classes and conduct research. * Provides quality, personalized and evidence-based care and proven interventions. * Evaluates ...

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All JobsExercise Research JobsExercise Research Jobs in Michigan

Exercise Research information

See Michigan salary details

$24.4K

$78.8K

$134.2K

How much do exercise research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise research in Michigan is $78,809.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,900.00 and $85,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What careers can you get with exercise research?

Exercise research can lead to careers such as exercise physiologist, sports scientist, fitness researcher, or clinical research coordinator. These roles often require knowledge of human physiology, data analysis skills, and sometimes certifications like ACSM or NSCA. Employment settings include universities, sports organizations, healthcare facilities, and research institutions.

What is exercise research?

Exercise research is the scientific study of physical activity, its effects on the human body, and how exercise can be used to prevent or treat health conditions. Researchers in this field investigate topics like exercise physiology, biomechanics, sports performance, rehabilitation, and the psychological impacts of physical activity. The goal is to understand how different types, intensities, and frequencies of exercise influence health, fitness, and overall well-being. Exercise research informs guidelines for physical activity and helps develop interventions to improve public health.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Researcher, you need a strong background in exercise science, physiology, research methodology, and typically a relevant advanced degree such as a master's or PhD. Familiarity with statistical analysis software (e.g., SPSS, R), laboratory equipment, and human performance testing tools is essential. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong written and verbal communication skills set outstanding researchers apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing rigorous studies, accurately analyzing data, and effectively communicating findings to advance the field.

What are jobs in exercise research?

Jobs in exercise research include exercise physiologists who research the human body and how it responds and adapts to exercise. As an exercise physiologist, you examine the human response to exercise. Your responsibilities involve the study of subjects in controlled lab settings. You develop tests to prove a thesis by recording physical, metabolic, and development information. Other duties can include working in an exercise science department at a research institute or post-secondary school. Keeping up to date on current peer-reviewed exercise science research is a critical part of your job. As a researcher, you travel to various locations to research and test subjects.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in exercise research, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in exercise research often encounter challenges such as recruiting a sufficient and diverse participant pool, ensuring compliance with study protocols, and controlling for external variables that may affect outcomes. These challenges are typically addressed through strategic partnerships with local fitness centers or clinics, the use of robust study designs, and careful data management. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, including statisticians and clinicians, also helps ensure methodological rigor and the reliability of research findings.

What is the difference between Exercise Research vs Exercise Physiologist?

AspectExercise ResearchExercise Physiologist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees (Master's/PhD), research certificationsBachelor's or Master's degree in exercise science, certification (e.g., ACSM)
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, healthcare institutionsClinics, hospitals, fitness centers, community health programs
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, research institutions, government agenciesHealthcare, fitness, rehabilitation facilities
Primary FocusConducting studies, developing exercise protocols, advancing scientific knowledgeDesigning and implementing exercise programs for health and rehabilitation

Exercise Research focuses on scientific studies and developing new exercise protocols, often within academic or research settings. In contrast, Exercise Physiologists apply this knowledge directly to patient care and fitness programs. Both roles require related credentials but serve different purposes within the health and fitness industry.

How do I become an exercise researcher?

To become an exercise researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or doctoral degree for advanced research roles. Skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and familiarity with research methodologies are essential, along with experience using tools like statistical software. Gaining practical experience through internships or research assistant positions can also improve job prospects.

How to get into exercise research?

To pursue a career in exercise research, typically a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or doctoral degree for advanced roles. Gaining experience through internships, research assistant positions, and developing skills in data analysis and laboratory techniques can improve job prospects. Familiarity with research methodologies and certifications such as CPR or first aid may also be beneficial.
More about Exercise Research jobs

What are popular job titles related to Exercise Research jobs in Michigan?

For Exercise Research jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Exercise Research jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Exercise Research jobs in Michigan are:

Exercise Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Research job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $78,809 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Fellow (LETS MOVE)

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 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

162nd of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

How to Apply
To apply for this position, please upload (combined into ONE PDF) a CV/resume, cover letter, and the names/contact information for 3 professional references. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline the skills and experience that directly relate to this position. All inquiries about the position should be emailed to Dr. David Lipps ( [email protected] ) with the subject line "LETS MOVE Postdoctoral Fellow Inquiry".
Job Summary
The School of Kinesiology , in partnership with the Rogel Cancer Center , is launching LETS MOVE, a structured exercise program for patients with cancer. Within this initiative, patients are enrolled in a six-month structured exercise research study. Led by Principal Investigators David Lipps, Erin Giles, Angela Fong, and Elizabeth Salerno, we are seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join our team.
This position offers an exceptional, high-level opportunity tailored for an ambitious PhD graduate looking to advance their academic career in exercise oncology. In this role, you will bridge clinical practice and advanced academic research. You will work directly with cancer patients in a collaborative and multidisciplinary environment to determine patients' needs and monitor progress throughout their participation, while simultaneously leading data analysis, drafting scientific manuscripts, and contributing to grant proposals under the mentorship of the PIs. The successful candidate will be reliable, conscientious, organized, and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
Responsibilities*
Essential Functions are noted with an "EF".
Clinical Testing, Intervention, & Trial Oversight (50%)
  • Oversee clinical trial of oncology patients enrolled in a structured exercise program (EF)
  • Perform assessments (e.g., questionnaires, six-minute walk test) to evaluate patients' physical status throughout trial (EF).
  • Demonstrate expertise in exercise prescription (EF).
  • Have awareness of exercise prescription guidelines for individuals with cancer.

Academic Research, Data Analysis, & Manuscript/Grant Writing (50%)
  • Lead advanced data analysis and management of patient outcomes to support clinical care, programmatic innovation, and scientific publication (EF).
  • Spearhead grant, abstract, and manuscript preparation, including conducting literature reviews, managing references, and coordinating journal submissions to high-impact peer-reviewed publications. (EF)
  • Assist with regulatory management of research (e.g., IRB applications, eResearch), monitoring study progress, and producing regular study reports including NIH progress reports (EF).
  • Coordinate high-level scientific interactions and programmatic updates with collaborating cancer care teams in the Rogel Cancer Center, including physicians, advanced practice providers, and support staff (EF).
  • Manage the training, professional development, and mentorship of study personnel and student research assistants (EF).
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications*
  • Ph.D. in exercise physiology, exercise science, kinesiology, or a closely related health science field (e.g., kinesiology, public health, epidemiology, exercise or health science, health education and health promotion, medicine, psychology).
  • Experience in clinical testing, exercise prescription, and evaluation.
  • Demonstrated track record of academic research excellence, including advanced data analysis, statistics, and scientific manuscript preparation.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and contribute to a positive workplace culture aligned with the school's core values .

Desired Qualifications*
  • Prior experience with cancer research or prior clinical research responsibilities in an academic medical setting.
  • Certification by the American College of Sports Medicine as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP) or completion of the ACSM/ACS Cancer Exercise Specialist certification course.
  • Certification in Basic Life Support (BLS).

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 .
Additional Information
The position is available immediately and is term-limited, with an initial appointment funded for 18 months (set up in increments of up to 1 year per university policy); the appointment may be extended depending on performance and the availability of research funds.
The salary range is $60,000 to $65,000, commensurate with education and experience. You are encouraged to discuss salary questions to honor understanding and transparency throughout the recruiting process.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
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 anytime 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.
Job Detail
Job Opening ID
281391
Working Title
Postdoctoral Research Fellow (LETS MOVE)
Job Title
RESEARCH FELLOW
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
School Kinesiology
Department
School of Kinesiology
Posting Begin/End Date
8/10/2026 - 8/24/2026
Career Interest
Research Fellows

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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.

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Company size

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Headquarters location

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Year founded

1817

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