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Professional Researcher Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

AI/ML Senior Researcher

Warren, MI · On-site

$92K - $117K/yr

... professional leadership in assignments to identify, define, and develop future strategic ... Researchers are also expected to counsel GM engineering management on manufacturing engineering ...

AI/ML Senior Researcher

Warren, MI · On-site

$92K - $117K/yr

... professional leadership in assignments to identify, define, and develop future strategic ... Researchers are also expected to counsel GM engineering management on manufacturing engineering ...

$15 - $16/hr

Ability to read legal documentation, high level administrative experience, legal court research experience and/or professional work experience preferred. * Work well under pressure with time ...

Lead UX Researcher

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$163K/yr

Lead UX Researcher Role Summary: About the UX Team Come and join the Tax UX Research Team as we ... We are looking for curious, smart, self-driven UX professionals who love the challenge of turning ...

Qualifications: * 3+ years of experience working in a professional business environment, preferably in a research or data collection role * Effective written and verbal communication * Familiarity ...

Showing results 21-40

Professional Researcher information

See Michigan salary details

$26.1K

$98.6K

$143.4K

How much do professional researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional 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 a professional researcher?

A Professional Researcher is responsible for gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information to support decision-making in various fields such as academia, business, science, or government. They use various research methods, including data collection, literature reviews, and qualitative or quantitative analysis. Their work often involves synthesizing findings into reports, presentations, or publications. Professional Researchers must have strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly.

What does a professional researcher do?

A Professional Researcher typically engages in designing and conducting studies, gathering and analyzing data, and synthesizing findings into reports or presentations. They may collaborate closely with other researchers, subject matter experts, or stakeholders to shape research questions and ensure the validity of results. Daily tasks often include literature reviews, data collection (such as interviews or surveys), drafting grant proposals, and presenting outcomes at team meetings. This role combines independent work with frequent collaboration, offering variety and opportunities to build deep expertise in a chosen field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional researcher?

To thrive as a Professional Researcher, you need strong analytical abilities, expertise in data collection and analysis, and a relevant advanced degree, such as a master's or Ph.D., depending on the field. Proficiency with research databases, statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), and familiarity with citation management tools or industry-specific certifications are often required. Excellent written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and attention to detail help researchers excel in compiling and reporting their findings. These competencies are crucial for producing rigorous, high-quality research and effectively disseminating insights to stakeholders.

Do I need a PhD to be a professional researcher?

A PhD is not always required to be a professional researcher, as many roles value relevant experience, analytical skills, and subject matter expertise. However, certain research positions, especially in academia or specialized fields, may prefer or require a doctoral degree. Skills in data analysis, critical thinking, and familiarity with research tools are also important for success in this role.

What kind of professional researcher makes the most money?

Senior-level research positions such as market research directors, data science researchers, or scientific research managers tend to earn the highest salaries among professional researchers. These roles often require advanced degrees, specialized skills in data analysis or scientific methods, and leadership responsibilities, which contribute to higher compensation.

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

The most popular types of Researcher jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Professional Researcher job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,579 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researcher in Cell and Molecular Biology / Virology

University Of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

$55 - $65/hr

Other

Re-posted 20 days ago


University Of Michigan rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Postdoctoral Researcher in Cell and Molecular Biology / VirologyJob Summary

The Maurer Lab in the Department of Biophysics is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to contribute to ongoing research projects and start recently funded new projects within the scope of adeno-associated viral vector biology. Start dates are flexible, from immediately to May 2027.

The Maurer Lab is within the Biophysics Program in the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. We are also affiliated with the Microbiology and Immunology Department at the University of Michigan Medical School. The successful candidate will join a rich and collaborative research environment that spans these adjacent campuses, with many opportunities for professional development.

This is a one-year appointment, with anticipated extension for a second year. All extensions for a second year or beyond are contingent upon satisfactory performance, availability of work and the availability of funding. International applicants are welcome, but we are not able to sponsor an H1B Visa. Additionally, we encourage applicants to apply for the Michigan Pioneer Fellows Program , which provides supplementary salary and outstanding professional development opportunities. Dr. Maurer will help prepare your application.

Responsibilities*

Responsibilities include contributing to project design, collection and analysis of data, manuscript and grant writing, co-mentoring undergraduate and graduate students with Dr. Maurer, and presenting research at regional, national, and international conferences.

Required Qualifications*

The successful candidate will have expertise in one or more of the following specific areas:

  • Plasmid library cloning and screening (pooled and/or arrayed)
  • Virology (especially DNA viruses)
  • Chromatin structure and function
  • DNA replication and/or repair

Applicants should hold (or be nearing completion of) a PhD in Biological Sciences, Virology/Microbiology/Immunology, Biophysics, Biomedical Sciences/Engineering, or a related field. In addition to the required expertise, preferred skills include: mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning, flow cytometry, CRISPR/Cas9 based genetic perturbations, and microscopy techniques including confocal fluorescent and live imaging.

A Ph.D. is required on or before the start date.

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 .

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.

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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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

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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