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Industrial Postdoc Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Industrial Postdoc information

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$20

$26

$37

How much do industrial postdoc jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for industrial postdoc in Michigan is $26.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.64 and $29.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an industrial postdoc?

An Industrial Postdoc is a research position in industry, typically held after completing a PhD. It combines academic-level research with real-world industrial applications, often focusing on innovation, product development, or process optimization. Unlike academic postdocs, industrial postdocs work in corporate environments, collaborating with business and technical teams. The role offers exposure to industry workflows and can serve as a pathway to permanent R&D or technical leadership roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an industrial postdoc?

To thrive as an Industrial Postdoc, a strong background in scientific research, data analysis, and a relevant doctoral degree (Ph.D.) are essential. Experience with laboratory instrumentation, statistical software, and possibly regulatory compliance systems like GLP or GMP is often required. Excellent problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help individuals excel in cross-functional, industry-driven environments. These abilities are crucial for bridging advanced research with real-world industrial applications and for collaborating effectively with diverse teams.

What are the typical collaboration opportunities for an industrial postdoc within an industrial setting?

As an Industrial Postdoc, you will frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams that may include scientists, engineers, product managers, and regulatory specialists. You might also interact with external partners such as academic collaborators, vendors, or customers depending on the project. This collaborative environment provides a unique chance to apply your academic training to practical problems, gain industry insights, and expand your professional network. Participating in cross-departmental projects and knowledge-sharing sessions is common, and these experiences often lead to new career opportunities within the organization.

What are popular job titles related to Industrial Postdoc jobs in Michigan?

For Industrial Postdoc jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Industrial Postdoc job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,319 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Chen Lab, LSA Chemistry

Kappaalphapsi1911

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

$52 - $68/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Job Summary

Professor Zhan Chen's laboratory at the University of Michigan is currently recruiting for a postdoctoral research fellow position in the Department of Chemistry. This is a one-year appointment starting no later than December 30, 2026. The initial appointment as a Research Fellow is for one year with the possibility of renewal, contingent upon satisfactory performance, availability of work and the availability of funding. The research in Prof. Chen's lab is focused on molecular level studies on complex surfaces/interfaces such as polymer and biological interfaces using nonlinear optical spectroscopic techniques. The Chen group has published journal articles extensively on studies of surfaces and interfaces using sum frequency generation (SFG) spectroscopy, supplemented by a variety of analytical tools. The research covers both fundamental studies and collaborations with industry. To read more about the groundbreaking research conducted in the Zhan Chen laboratory click here: Chen Lab (https://public.websites.umich.edu/~chenlab/).

Responsibilities*

The successful candidate will carry out SFG and other spectroscopic studies on molecular structures and interactions at interfaces involving biological molecules, polymer materials, organic molecules, metals, or semiconductors. The postdoc will also be involved in the research related to interfacial dynamics using ultrafast pump-probe SFG studies. The postdoc is expected to perform both independent and collaborative research (with group members and industrial partners), publish peer reviewed research articles, present research data to the industrial collaborators, and write technical reports.

Required Qualifications*

PhD in Physics, Physical Chemistry, Laser Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field is required. Proof of degree confirmation must be in hand on or before the start date.

Desired Qualifications*

Extensive research experience and background in all or some of the following areas: molecular spectroscopy, lasers (solid-state lasers), nonlinear optical systems (second harmonic, sum frequency generation etc.), ultrafast spectroscopy, etc. The ideal candidate will be a conscientious, responsible person who is interested in being a member of a team of postdoctoral fellows, graduate and undergraduate students; have excellent organizational skills and can communicate effectively with a wide-range of people with various backgrounds. The ideal candidate will also have a strong record of publications. Postdoctoral Research Fellows in the Chen laboratory expected to assume leadership of their projects and mentor graduates students and undergraduates working alongside them to answer questions and communicate findings.

Modes of Work

The work requires a fully onsite presence at the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor Campus).

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 checksare performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Contact Information

Please direct any questions to [emailprotected]

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days.The review and selection process maybegin as early as the eighth day after posting.Thisopening 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.

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