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Independent Researcher Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

... independent researcher. This includes an expectation of generating, compiling, and analyzing data along with writing manuscripts and presenting results at scientific conferences. Fellows will ...

Prospect Researcher

Bloomfield, MI · On-site

$62K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prospect Researcher Founded by Detroit philanthropists George and Ellen Booth in 1904, Cranbrook ... independent college preparatory Schools, Cranbrook welcomes thousands of visitors and students to ...

Senior Security Researcher

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$202 - $278/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our research doesn't just advance academic knowledge--it's leveraged to directly protect enterprise ... Demonstrated ability to independently identify and characterise vulnerabilities, misconfigurations ...

Conduct research and/or experiments to collect required data and validate research ideas in ... Selfmotivated, proactive, and capable of driving independent work. This role is categorized as ...

Conduct research and/or experiments to collect required data and validate research ideas in ... Self-motivated, proactive, and capable of driving independent work. • Additional Information:

Conduct research and/or experiments to collect required data and validate research ideas in ... Selfmotivated, proactive, and capable of driving independent work. Additional Information: This ...

We are supportive of post-doctoral research fellows obtaining independent funding and/or career development awards to advance their independent academic careers. Responsibilities* The successful ...

You will also be part of an independent, employee-owned firm that is able to define and further our ... Mathematica is seeking researchers who are excited to solve complex policy andprogrammatic ...

$15 - $16/hr

We are seeking aFull-Time Court Researcher in Kentucky (Fayette County).Individual must be ... Are capable of working independently but take direction well. What Are You Waiting For? Apply Today!

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Independent Researcher information

See Michigan salary details

$26.1K

$98.6K

$143.4K

How much do independent researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent researcher in Michigan is $98,579.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,400.00 and $134,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent researcher?

An Independent Researcher conducts studies, analyzes data, and develops knowledge outside of formal institutional settings. They often self-fund or seek grants, working on projects driven by personal interest or societal needs. This role requires strong self-discipline, research skills, and the ability to publish or present findings independently. Independent Researchers may collaborate with institutions, but they operate without direct employment by academia or private organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent researcher?

To thrive as an Independent Researcher, you need advanced analytical thinking, solid research methodologies, and expertise in your chosen field, often supported by a relevant degree or substantive research experience. Familiarity with data analysis tools, reference management software, and scientific databases is commonly required. Strong self-motivation, time management, and written communication skills help set outstanding researchers apart. These skills are crucial for producing credible, high-quality research independently, managing projects efficiently, and effectively sharing findings with diverse audiences.

What are some common challenges faced by independent researchers and how can they be addressed?

Independent Researchers often encounter challenges such as securing funding, accessing necessary resources, and maintaining motivation without the structure of a traditional institution. Navigating these hurdles usually involves proactive networking, seeking grants or sponsorships, and utilizing online academic platforms or open-source tools. Collaboration with other researchers or joining professional associations can provide valuable support and feedback. Staying organized and setting clear project milestones also helps maintain progress and motivation throughout the research process.

Do independent researchers get paid?

Independent researchers can be paid for their work, often through project-based contracts, consulting fees, or grants. Payment depends on the nature of the research, the client or organization, and the researcher’s expertise and reputation.

How do you become an independent researcher?

To become an independent researcher, you typically need a strong background in your chosen field, often demonstrated through a relevant degree or extensive experience. Developing research skills, such as data analysis and critical thinking, and establishing a professional network can also help. Many independent researchers use tools like research databases and maintain a portfolio of their work to attract clients or funding.

What do independent researchers do?

Independent researchers conduct studies, gather data, analyze information, and produce reports or findings without being affiliated with a specific organization. They often work on specific projects, utilize research tools and methodologies, and may operate on a freelance or contract basis to support academic, scientific, or market research needs.

What are popular job titles related to Independent Researcher jobs in Michigan?

For Independent Researcher jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Independent Researcher jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Researcher jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Independent Researcher job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,579 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 18 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
The following items are required for consideration for this position: cover letter, CV, transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and a mentor letter of support. The cover letter should be attached as the first page of your resume. Applicants must apply through the UM Careers website to Job ID 281612 for the ETEP Research Fellow job posting. Please note that only U.S. citizens or permanent residents are eligible and can be considered. Positions are for the FY26 Level 0 with potential consideration for Levels 1 or 2 based on amount of previous experience. Applicants are required to work with an ETEP mentor or an ETEP mentoring team. A letter of support from the mentor(s) must accompany the application materials. Applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss the program with program leadership and/or potential mentors, and must contact mentors prior to submitting their application. The ETEP mentor list can be found https://sph.umich.edu/ehs/etep/faculty.html
Only full applications will be considered and applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis. Top identified applicants will be interviewed by the ETEP Executive Committee. Positions will be available for an immediate start date, with flexibility depending on the candidates availability.
Job Summary
The University of Michigan Environmental Toxicology and Epidemiology Program (ETEP) research fellow positions.
ETEP is a NIH T32 training grant program funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences that focuses on helping trainees become independent researchers in the areas of biomedical toxicology, environmental epidemiology, exposome and exposure science, and environmental informatics. Research fellows will design and conduct research in the environmental health sciences. This can include, for example, generating, analyzing and interpretating environmental health data, and preparing manuscripts and other scholarly products.
Research topics can be proposed by the fellow and should be aligned with interests of training program faculty. Research specialties of the supporting faculty are broad, and include genetic, epigenetic, cell signaling, metabolic and oxidative stress mechanisms of toxicity with respect to reproductive, developmental, neurological and immunological systems. Additional research areas include cancer, metabolic disorders, environmental chemistry, exposure science, nutrient-toxicant interactions, the developmental origins of health and disease, and emerging risk and susceptibility factors such as extreme weather events.
These positions are funded one year at a time and typically renewed for a second year based on progress and availability of funding. Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the training grant website to obtain more information https://sph.umich.edu/ehs/etep/ and to contact potential mentors. Depending on the project and the mentor, hybrid work options may be available.
Responsibilities*
Fellows will work under the mentorship of an ETEP faculty mentor to perform scholarly research with the ultimate goal of becoming an independent researcher. This includes an expectation of generating, compiling, and analyzing data along with writing manuscripts and presenting results at scientific conferences.
Fellows will participate in professional development opportunities, including an individual development plan, co-mentoring, and assistance with our annual Environmental Health Sciences Symposium held at the University of Michigan.
Fellows will participate in the development of research grants, potentially with interdisciplinary collaboration with other researchers.
Required Qualifications*
Required qualifications include a PhD, MD, or comparable doctoral degree from an accredited domestic or foreign institution at the time of appointment; be a US citizen, a noncitizen national of the United States (e.g., born in outlying possessions of the USA), or have been lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the USA (e.g., possess a current Permanent Resident card).
Desired Qualifications*
Desired qualifications include completion of coursework in the environmental health sciences, epidemiology, toxicology, exposure science, environmental chemistry, or an allied area; demonstration of scholarly excellence through prior academic work, publications and conference presentations; excellent communication skills; and strong interests in areas of toxicology, epidemiology, exposure science, and/or data science.
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 .
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
281612
Working Title
RESEARCH FELLOW
Job Title
RESEARCH FELLOW
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Hybrid
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Exempt
Organizational Group
School Pub Health
Department
Environmental Health Sciences
Posting Begin/End Date
8/14/2026 - 8/28/2026
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.

Industry

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Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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