ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Postdoc Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Western Michigan University

Postdoctoral Fellow

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

Postdoctoral fellows will lead research projects and have the opportunity to closely collaborate with experts in molecular biology, bioinformatics, genetics and biochemistry. The successful candidate ...

University of Michigan

RESEARCH FELLOW

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$62K - $64K/yr

We seek talented, motivated postdoctoral applicants from all areas of engineering, math, physics, computer science and other relevant areas. The duties and expectations of this position include ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPostdoc JobsPostdoc Jobs in Michigan

Postdoc information

See Michigan salary details

$21.8K

$51.4K

$72.8K

How much do postdoc jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoc in Michigan is $51,443.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,700.00 and $58,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are postdocs?

Postdocs, or postdoctoral researchers, are individuals who have completed their doctoral studies (PhD or equivalent) and are engaged in a temporary period of mentored research or scholarly training. This position allows them to deepen their expertise in a specialized area, develop new research skills, and prepare for independent careers in academia, industry, or other sectors. Postdoctoral appointments typically last from one to five years and often involve publishing research findings, collaborating with other scientists, and sometimes teaching responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Postdoc, you need a doctoral degree in a relevant field, strong research skills, and a track record of academic publications. Familiarity with specialized research tools, statistical analysis software, and laboratory techniques (where applicable) is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, independence, and effective communication skills help postdocs excel in collaborative and interdisciplinary environments. These skills are crucial for advancing research objectives, securing funding, and building a foundation for a successful academic or industry career.

What is the difference between Postdoc vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdocResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree (PhD)Master's or PhD, often with more industry experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutionsIndustry, corporate R&D labs, or research organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, academic research centersPrivate companies, government agencies, industry
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic research rolesIndustry research roles and career progression

In summary, a Postdoc is primarily an academic research position focused on gaining specialized research experience after earning a PhD. A Research Scientist typically works in industry or corporate settings, often requiring similar credentials but emphasizing applied research and product development. The choice depends on whether you aim for an academic or industry career path.

What are some common challenges faced by postdocs during their fellowship, and how can they be addressed?

Postdocs often encounter challenges such as balancing independent research with collaborative projects, managing the pressure to publish, and navigating uncertainty around career progression. Building strong communication with mentors, setting clear research goals, and seeking out professional development resources can help address these challenges. Additionally, connecting with peers and participating in interdisciplinary teams can provide support and open up new opportunities for collaboration and skill development.
What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoc jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Postdoc jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Postdoc jobs in Michigan? For Postdoc jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Postdoc jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Postdoc jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Postdoc jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Postdoc job openings:
Postdoc jobs near you
Infographic showing various Postdoc job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,443 per year, or $24.7 per hour.
2026 Michigan Pioneer Fellows

2026 Michigan Pioneer Fellows

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

$47K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life

Posted 29 days ago

University Of Michigan rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 140 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 537 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The University of Michigan invites applications for a postdoctoral research program, the Michigan Pioneer Fellows program - a unique, multidisciplinary community of scholars that provides mentorship focused on creating the next generation of leaders in the life and biomedical sciences. The University of Michigan's Medical School, Life Sciences Institute, College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, College of Pharmacy, and School of Dentistry are participating units for the 2026 Cohort.
Eligibility
  • We are seeking early-career researchers of exceptional promise in the life and biomedical sciences.
  • Applicants must be less than one-year post-degree (Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D., or Pharm.D./Ph.D.) at the time of application, or enrolled as students in the final year of their doctoral degree program. Degree confirmation must be provided prior to the start of the fellowship.
  • For applicants who have entered clinical training programs (including those with M.D., D.O., and Pharm.D. degrees), they must be less than one-year past their postgraduate clinical training end date at the time of application.
  • Applicants currently in their first year of postdoctoral research in a U-M laboratory are eligible. However, individuals who seek to continue training in the laboratory environment in which they have conducted doctoral thesis research are not eligible.
  • Applications from international students are welcomed. Recent international graduates are encouraged to utilize their F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) period or STEM extension, if applicable. For those not eligible for F-1 OPT, we will provide assistance in securing the appropriate visa.
  • Applicants must be available to work onsite for the duration of the fellowship, as this is not a virtual program.

For more information regarding the program and eligibility, visit pioneerfellows.umich.edu
Application Instructions
Application Requirements:
  • All documents should be formatted in Arial font, 11-point size, with 0.5-inch margins.
  • A cover letter from the applicant (up to 1 page).
  • A document describing the applicant's previous accomplishments (up to 1 page).
  • A document describing future professional objectives and proposed research direction (up to 2 pages, not counting references).
  • A letter of support is required from the proposed primary mentor (in the case of multiple mentors, this should be a combined letter as only one letter can be uploaded). This is not a reference letter but should outline the applicant's qualifications, the significance of the research project, and a detailed mentorship plan. Mentors must also confirm their commitment to providing funding, resources, and active participation in the Pioneer Program (see "Expectations" on the website in About the Program for Mentors section) (up to 2 pages). The mentor identified to provide a letter of support will receive an email with a link where they can upload the letter directly to Interfolio.
  • In addition, three letters of recommendation are required from faculty mentors. These may be past or present faculty, and they do not need to be from the University of Michigan. These individuals cannot be postdoc mentors (see letter of support above). The individuals identified to provide a letter of recommendation will receive an email with a link where they can upload their letter directly to Interfolio.
  • Applicant's curriculum vitae (CV).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.

What University Of Michigan employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

University of Michigan logo

About University of Michigan

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All University of Michigan Jobs

Apply