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Postdoctoral Research Assistant Jobs in Michigan

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Postdoctoral Research Assistant information

See Michigan salary details

$37K

$74.9K

$101.5K

How much do postdoctoral research assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral research assistant in Michigan is $74,922.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,800.00 and $101,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a postdoctoral research assistant?

A Postdoctoral Research Assistant is a researcher who has recently completed their doctoral studies (PhD) and is engaged in further academic or scientific research. Their primary role is to conduct independent or collaborative research projects, often under the supervision of senior academics or principal investigators. Postdoctoral Research Assistants contribute to publications, grant writing, and may also mentor graduate or undergraduate students. This position is typically temporary and is designed to provide additional training and experience before transitioning to more permanent academic or research roles.

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

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Research Assistant, you need a PhD in a relevant field, strong analytical and experimental skills, and a solid record of academic research. Familiarity with domain-specific laboratory techniques, data analysis software like MATLAB or R, and experience with academic publishing are typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively help you stand out. These skills are essential for producing high-quality research, disseminating findings, and contributing effectively to scientific teams.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral research assistants when transitioning to independent research roles?

One common challenge for Postdoctoral Research Assistants is balancing the demands of supporting their supervisor's projects while developing their own independent research ideas. Navigating grant applications, building a publication record, and establishing professional networks can also be daunting. Additionally, adapting to new institutional cultures and expectations, especially when moving between universities or countries, requires flexibility and strong communication skills. Proactively seeking mentorship and collaborating with colleagues can help ease this transition and set the stage for a successful independent research career.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Research Assistant vs Research Fellow?

AspectPostdoctoral Research AssistantResearch Fellow
Required credentialsPhD or equivalentPhD or equivalent, often with additional experience
Work environmentResearch labs, universities, academic settingsResearch projects, academic institutions, sometimes independent
Employer and industry usageUniversities, research institutesUniversities, research organizations, sometimes industry
Common search and comparison intentUnderstanding entry-level research rolesAdvanced research roles, independent research

The main difference between a Postdoctoral Research Assistant and a Research Fellow lies in experience level and independence. Postdoctoral Research Assistants typically work under supervision on specific projects, while Research Fellows often have more independence and may lead their own research. Both roles require a PhD and are common in academic and research settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Postdoctoral Research jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Postdoctoral Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Postdoctoral Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Postdoctoral Research Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,922 per year, or $36 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


University Of Michigan rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

How to Apply
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.
Job Summary
The Speech Neurophysiology Lab is seeking candidates for a postdoctoral research fellow position in a brain imaging laboratory that studies the neural bases of stuttering and other related speech-language and developmental disorders.
Responsibilities*
Primary responsibilities will include:
  1. Executing standard statistical methods for analysis of neuroimaging data.
  2. Researching and implementing novel/advanced methods for data analysis.

Secondary responsibilities will include:
  1. Helping to design, set-up, and run behavioral and brain imaging experiments.
  2. Assisting in medical/scientific literature searches, manuscript preparation, and presentation of data collected.
  3. Assisting with training of undergraduate and graduate research assistants in the lab.

Required Qualifications*
Educational & Experiential Requirements:
  • A Ph.D. in Speech and Hearing Sciences, Psychology, Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, or a related field.
  • A track record of published research commensurate with their experience in an area that closely relates to the project aims

Other relevant knowledge, skills, or abilities necessary to succeed in this role:
  • Good familiarity with the published literature in the neural bases of stuttering, brain development, and speech motor control.
  • A strong background in statistics (including all standard univariate statistical methods such as multiple regression, ANOVA).
  • Strong organizational and interpersonal skills are needed, as the position requires the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Desired Qualifications*
  • Prior experience with behavioral/brain imaging, particularly functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and/or brain imaging data analysis software (AFNI, FSL, Freesurfer, SPM, etc.).
  • Proficiency with MATLAB and UNIX/Linux programming is preferred.
  • Strong preference will be given to applicants with prior experience with acquiring and analyzing EEG and/or structural and functional MRI data.

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 .
Work Schedule
Monday - Friday
Work Locations
Ann Arbor, MI
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.
In addition to the screenings indicated above under Michigan law, a criminal history check including fingerprinting is required as a condition of transfer or employment for this position.
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
262165
Working Title
Postdoctoral 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
Medical School
Department
MM Psychiatry Child Services
Posting Begin/End Date
7/01/2026 - 12/31/2026
Career Interest
Research Fellows

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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

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Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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