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Research Director Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

University of Rochester

$77K - $116K/yr

... and the Director, Research Facilitation Group. * Works with principal investigators, research faculty and others on hiring and management of research project staff to include but not limited to ...

Insight

Associate Director Research Operations

Flint, MI · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

Associate Director Research Operations Location: Flint, MI Job Id: 2496 # of Openings: 1 Insight Health System Clinical Research Associate Director, Research Operations Title: Associate Director ...

Wayne State University

Research Assistant

Detroit, MI · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Provide coordination assistance on multi-funded and/or multi-site research projects. * Assist project director in project planning to ensure that pre-established work scope, study protocol, and ...

Wayne State University

Research Assistant

Detroit, MI · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Provide coordination assistance on multi-funded and/or multi-site research projects. * Assist project director in project planning to ensure that pre-established work scope, study protocol, and ...

University of Michigan

RESEARCH FELLOW

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

Direct data generation and analysis * Write the first draft of research manuscripts with input and feedback from the PI * Present experimental results internally and at scientific meetings Lab ...

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All JobsResearch JobsResearch Director JobsResearch Director Jobs in Michigan

Research Director information

See Michigan salary details

$50.1K

$166.8K

$200.9K

How much do research director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for research director in Michigan is $166,753.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,100.00 and $199,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Research Director vs Research Manager?

AspectResearch DirectorResearch Manager
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in relevant field; often advanced degreesBachelor's or Master's in relevant field; some roles prefer advanced degrees
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership in research departments, overseeing multiple projectsManaging research teams and projects, focusing on execution
Industry UsageUsed in corporate, academic, and government research settingsCommon in corporate and academic research teams

The Research Director typically holds a higher strategic leadership role, overseeing research initiatives and setting long-term goals. The Research Manager focuses more on managing day-to-day research activities and team coordination. Both roles require strong research credentials, but the Research Director's scope is broader and more strategic.

What does a research director do?

A research director oversees research projects, manages teams of researchers, and develops strategies to meet organizational goals. They analyze data, ensure research quality, and often collaborate with other departments to apply findings effectively. Strong leadership, analytical skills, and familiarity with research tools are essential for this role.

How does a research director typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project success?

As a Research Director, you will frequently work with cross-functional teams, including product managers, data analysts, marketing professionals, and senior leadership. Collaboration often involves establishing research priorities, aligning on project goals, and communicating key findings to various stakeholders. Effective Research Directors facilitate regular meetings, provide clear direction to research staff, and ensure that research insights are integrated into broader organizational strategies. This collaborative approach is essential for delivering impactful research outcomes that support business objectives.

What is a research director?

A research director manages a company’s research and development department. As a research director, you supervise team members, overseeing data collection and analysis, product design, and manufacturing. Other responsibilities include hiring and training new staff, conducting performance evaluations, and gathering information and preparing detailed reports about the progress and outcomes of research projects. The qualifications for a career as a research director are a doctorate in science and at least five years of management experience.

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

To thrive as a Research Director, you need advanced expertise in research methodology, data analysis, and project management, typically supported by a PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant field. Familiarity with statistical software, data visualization tools, and research management systems is often required. Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for guiding research teams, ensuring the quality of deliverables, and aligning projects with organizational goals.
More about Research Director jobs

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

The most popular types of Research jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Director jobs in Michigan?

For Research Director jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Director jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Director jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Research Director jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Research Director job openings:

Research Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Director job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $166,753 per year, or $80.2 per hour.

Site Manager/Director - Clinical Research

Headlands Research

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

At Headlands Research, we are dedicated to enhancing clinical trial delivery within our communities. As a leading network of advanced clinical trial sites, we leverage cutting-edge technology and exceptional support services to broaden outreach and participation. Founded in 2018, our rapidly growing company currently operates 20+ sites across the US and Canada, with plans for further expansion.
Location: Grand Rapids, MI | Site Name: Headlands Research - Grand Rapids | Full-Time | Clinical Research
Are you an experienced clinical research professional with a passion for advancing medicine? Join a leading, integrated clinical research network dedicated to high-quality data, patient-centered care, and innovation in clinical trials.
We're seeking a Site Director to help us build our newest clinical research site located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This role drives financial targets, enrollment goals, and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) while ensuring strict adherence to Good Clinical Practice (GCP), International Council of Harmonization (ICH), and regulatory requirements.
Type: Regular Full-time Employee
Schedule: Mondays through Fridays, 8:00am - 5:00pm
Location: Onsite in Grand Rapids, MI (no capabilities for remote or hybrid work)
Reports to: Senior Director of Regional Operations
Benefits: Our benefits package for full-time employees includes health insurance (medical, dental, and vision), Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Paid Time Off (PTO), a variety of disability, accident, and life insurance options, as well as many more.
What We Offer
  • Competitive pay + annual performance incentives
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) plan with company match
  • Paid time off (PTO) and company holidays
  • A mission-driven culture focused on advancing medicine and improving patient outcomes

Why Join Us?
You'll be part of a growing, mission-driven organization that values its people. At our core, we're committed to bringing innovative medical treatments to patients faster-while creating an environment where employees thrive. If you're passionate about clinical research and ready to make a difference, we'd love to hear from you.
Responsibilities:
  • Operational leadership and study management
    • Manage site facilities, workflow, and Clinical Trial Management Systems (CTMS) to ensure premium experience for subjects, staff, and sponsors
    • Monitor clinical study progress, review monitor reports, and create risk management/mitigation strategies during study start-up
    • Lead a site-level quality review program; ensure the site remains in a constant state of audit-readiness for CRO, sponsor, or regulatory inspections
    • Manage the lifecycle of all site regulatory documentation, from initial start-up through ongoing maintenance
    • Act as the primary resource for protocol-related questions and ensure all staff are trained on study-specific requirements
    • Oversee external site partners, including onboarding, training, and performance monitoring
    • Ensure proper storage and handling of study specimens and investigational products
    • Lead or assist with various job duties and projects as assigned
  • People and team management (once site is fully operational and staffed)
    • Provide coaching, mentoring, and development plans for all direct reports (Clinical Research Coordinators and support staff) to maintain high morale, retention, and an engaged workforce
    • Manage the full employee lifecycle, including interviewing, hiring, onboarding, performance reviews, and disciplinary actions in partnership with HR
    • Proactively assess staffing needs and manage coverage to ensure research subject safety and data integrity
    • Foster a collaborative and productive work environment that encourages continuous improvement
    • Lead regular team meetings to discuss status of current projects, plan for future projects, provide updates on new company initiatives, seek feedback regarding team barriers
    • Manage local team to meet/exceed quality and performance metrics, report key performance indicators to leadership team
    • Serve as a Culture Champion to support our mission and values, ensure team is compliant with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and all industry standards
  • Financial management
    • Manage site expenses, assess Profit & Loss (P&L) reports, and redirect resources to ensure performance and financial targets are met
    • Support the creation of and managing to an accurate budget and forecast
  • Business development and relationship management
    • Drive recruitment strategies to meet or exceed monthly screening, randomization, and patient retention targets
    • Serve as the primary point of contact between the clinical team, Sponsors, CROs, and community advocates
    • Participate in study feasibility processes, providing accurate site-specific data to secure future trials
    • Drive the growth and development of the site by identifying areas for improvement and innovation while staying informed of industry advancements

Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in a scientific, health-related, or business administration field or equivalent experience
  • Previous experience managing or leading others highly preferred
  • 3+ years of experience designated as a Primary Clinical Research Coordinator required
  • Demonstrated ability to motivate teams and lead planning/organization efforts
  • Strong critical thinking and proactive problem-solving abilities
  • Proficiency in Clinical Trial Management Systems and standard office software
  • Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills
  • Growth mindset and a commitment to continuous improvement
  • Strong conflict resolution and mediation skills; ability to manage and resolve disputes effectively
  • Strong ethical standards and professionalism

Headlands Research will never ask a candidate for personal identifiable information (date of birth, social security number, driver's license information, etc) via email or messenger tools, or for a financial deposit of any kind.
Headlands Research is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Need Assistance?
Headlands Research is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact recruiting@headlandsresearch.com for further assistance. Please note this is for individuals to request an accommodation as part of the application process and any other correspondence will not receive a response.

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