Clinical Research Assistant Jobs in Michigan
Clinical Research Assistant jobs in Michigan are in steady demand, concentrated in academic medical centers, pharmaceutical research sites, and health system-affiliated trial units across Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Grand Rapids. Major employers with lasting research footprints in the state include Michigan Medicine, Henry Ford Health, and Spectrum Health, all of which run active clinical trial programs that regularly bring on assistants at entry and mid-career levels. Data management, patient coordination, and regulatory document support are the sub-areas drawing the most consistent hiring across Michigan sites. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
Find JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 36+ Clinical Research Assistant jobs
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
We are seeking a highly motivated and self-led candidate to be part of our growing team of researchers dedicated to reducing stigma and public health impacts from substance use, improving access to supportive services, and enhancing the well-being of people who use substances. The Clinical Service Specialist will work directly with research participants enrolled in one or more multi-year research studies integrating motivational interviewing approaches to provide brief interventions, resource navigation, and connection to services (i.e. brief case management). Tasks in this role focus on building trust, identifying participant needs and goals, providing education, supporting participant goals, and helping connect individuals to relevant services. Candidates will apply strong interpersonal and organizational skills to engage participants with substance-related resources, particularly in rural or underserved communities. Other study-related responsibilities include assisting with recruitment and informed consent processes, data collection and analyses, quality assurance activities, maintaining resource lists, and other tasks needed to support study aims.
The person in this position will gain experience delivering manualized substance use interventions and case management support. This position is a great opportunity to work at the intersection of community engagement, public health, substance use services, and innovative research to improve access to care and risk reduction resources throughout the State of Michigan, particularly in underserved rural areas. This position provides the opportunity to work with a thriving and positive team, connect directly with patients and clinics, support practical solutions to real-world barriers, and gain career mentoring and growth opportunities in the field of substance use, public health, and community-based care.
Responsibilities*
- Deliver manualized study interventions providing brief support, resource navigation, and connection to care to reduce substance use and address participant-identified goals via evidence- supported approaches such as: motivational interviewing, harm reduction/risk reduction, trauma-informed care, patient-centered counseling, and others.
- Develop and maintain resource lists, participant-facing materials, and additional content related to research aims.
- The job will require engaging with participants and community partners in rural communities to support referral pathways, participant access to care, and additional aims of the study.
- Identify and respond appropriately to clinical risks, including overdose risk, withdrawal concerns, suicidal ideation, self-harm risk by conducting risk assessments and carrying out action plans per existing study protocols.
- Support participant recruitment and enrollment, data collection and analysis, and day-to-day study activities for one or more multi-year research studies.
- Travel to the Ann Arbor office and possible travel to rural clinics or community sites throughout the State of Michigan as needed for study activities.
- Adhere to institutional regulations and study protocols related to patient confidentiality, safety, data integrity, and quality, as well as study workflows, documentation requirements, and standard operating procedures.
- Other responsibilities as needed to fulfill study aims and objectives.
Required Qualifications*
To be considered for this position, all applicants for this position will need to demonstrate:
- Education/training in public health, psychology, social work, sociology, health sciences, community health, human services, peer recovery coaching or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
- Prior experience or training in substance use, behavioral health, public health, harm reduction, health equity, social services, or community-based care.
- Familiarity with patient care and clinical care environments, including mental health, primary care, substance use disorder treatment, community health, or integrated behavioral health settings.
- Ability to take independent initiative and manage time effectively to meet project and participant goals, with strong attention to detail, organization, and strategic planning. Excellent multi-tasking and problem-solving ability, and strong record-keeping practices.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate respectfully and effectively with people who use substances, research staff, and community partners.
- Ability to work and engage with participants and teams remotely; therefore, comfort with technology, remote communication, virtual meeting platforms, and electronic documentation systems is required.
- Reliable transportation and ability to travel to the office in Ann Arbor, MI, with possible travel to rural clinics or community sites throughout the State of Michigan.
To be considered for this position at the Research Area Specialist Intermediate level, applicants must possess:
- a Bachelor's Degree in a related field of study.
- 4-5 Years of professional experience in a related field.
To be considered for this position at the Research Area Specialist Associate level, applicants must possess:
- a Bachelor's Degree in a related field of study.
- 1-3 Years of professional experience in a related field.
Desired Qualifications*
Additional qualifications that will help candidates succeed in this role at any level:
- Prior experience providing resource navigation, care coordination, case management, outreach, brief intervention, or follow-up support to patients, clients, or research participants.
- Prior training or experience with risk reduction approaches to substance use, motivational interviewing, or participant-centered intervention.
- Experience working with or advocating for rural, underserved and under-resourced populations, particularly people who use substances or individuals with mental health, housing, transportation, insurance, or social service needs.
- Previous research experience, particularly experience with participant recruitment, informed consent, participant tracking, data collection, data entry, retention activities, or following research protocols.
- Familiarity with barriers to care in rural Michigan communities, including transportation, stigma, limited service availability, broadband/technology access, cost, insurance, and workforce shortages.
Additional qualifications that will help candidates succeed in this role at the Intermediate Level:
- Master's Degree in a related field.
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
The person(s) in this position will be responsible for completing a schedule consisting of 40 hours a week, usually held within 5 days.
Our typical workday is either 9am to 5pm or 8am to 4pm based on manager's approval. Some weekend or evening shifts will be needed to meet the goals/needs of the research grant(s).
Flexible hours are available for staff while we work remotely for participant-facing or research activities only or based on manager discretion and approval.
Work Locations
Our team is currently working in a hybrid model, with onsite work days taking place at our offices in Ann Arbor, MI.
Candidates for this position may be required to visit community sites and collaborate with research partners (including the Department of Veterans Affairs) throughout the State of Michigan, thus must have reliable transportation to meet the in-person requirements of the role, when necessary. The hybrid model of this position may change based on research/grant needs or University of Michigan policy updates.
Underfill Statement
This position may be underfilled at a lower classification depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate.
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 any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
E-Verify
The University of Michigan participates with the federal EVerify system. Individuals hired into positions that are funded by a federal contract with the FAR EVerify clause must have their identity and work eligibility confirmed by the EVerify system. This position is identified as a position that may include the EVerify requirement.
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 Opening ID
282002
Working Title
Addiction Research Area Specialist Intermediate/Research Area Specialist Associate Underfill (Clinical Service Specialist)
Job Title
Research Area Specialist Inter
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 Psych Addiction
Posting Begin/End Date
8/21/2026 - 9/04/2026
Career Interest
Research
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
We are seeking a highly motivated and self-led candidate to be part of our growing team of researchers dedicated to reducing stigma and public health impacts from substance use, improving access to supportive services, and enhancing the well-being of people who use substances. The Clinical Service Specialist will work directly with research participants enrolled in one or more multi-year research studies integrating motivational interviewing approaches to provide brief interventions, resource navigation, and connection to services (i.e. brief case management). Tasks in this role focus on building trust, identifying participant needs and goals, providing education, supporting participant goals, and helping connect individuals to relevant services. Candidates will apply strong interpersonal and organizational skills to engage participants with substance-related resources, particularly in rural or underserved communities. Other study-related responsibilities include assisting with recruitment and informed consent processes, data collection and analyses, quality assurance activities, maintaining resource lists, and other tasks needed to support study aims.
The person in this position will gain experience delivering manualized substance use interventions and case management support. This position is a great opportunity to work at the intersection of community engagement, public health, substance use services, and innovative research to improve access to care and risk reduction resources throughout the State of Michigan, particularly in underserved rural areas. This position provides the opportunity to work with a thriving and positive team, connect directly with patients and clinics, support practical solutions to real-world barriers, and gain career mentoring and growth opportunities in the field of substance use, public health, and community-based care.
Responsibilities*
- Deliver manualized study interventions providing brief support, resource navigation, and connection to care to reduce substance use and address participant-identified goals via evidence- supported approaches such as: motivational interviewing, harm reduction/risk reduction, trauma-informed care, patient-centered counseling, and others.
- Develop and maintain resource lists, participant-facing materials, and additional content related to research aims.
- The job will require engaging with participants and community partners in rural communities to support referral pathways, participant access to care, and additional aims of the study.
- Identify and respond appropriately to clinical risks, including overdose risk, withdrawal concerns, suicidal ideation, self-harm risk by conducting risk assessments and carrying out action plans per existing study protocols.
- Support participant recruitment and enrollment, data collection and analysis, and day-to-day study activities for one or more multi-year research studies.
- Travel to the Ann Arbor office and possible travel to rural clinics or community sites throughout the State of Michigan as needed for study activities.
- Adhere to institutional regulations and study protocols related to patient confidentiality, safety, data integrity, and quality, as well as study workflows, documentation requirements, and standard operating procedures.
- Other responsibilities as needed to fulfill study aims and objectives.
Required Qualifications*
To be considered for this position, all applicants for this position will need to demonstrate:
- Education/training in public health, psychology, social work, sociology, health sciences, community health, human services, peer recovery coaching or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
- Prior experience or training in substance use, behavioral health, public health, harm reduction, health equity, social services, or community-based care.
- Familiarity with patient care and clinical care environments, including mental health, primary care, substance use disorder treatment, community health, or integrated behavioral health settings.
- Ability to take independent initiative and manage time effectively to meet project and participant goals, with strong attention to detail, organization, and strategic planning. Excellent multi-tasking and problem-solving ability, and strong record-keeping practices.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate respectfully and effectively with people who use substances, research staff, and community partners.
- Ability to work and engage with participants and teams remotely; therefore, comfort with technology, remote communication, virtual meeting platforms, and electronic documentation systems is required.
- Reliable transportation and ability to travel to the office in Ann Arbor, MI, with possible travel to rural clinics or community sites throughout the State of Michigan.
To be considered for this position at the Research Area Specialist Intermediate level, applicants must possess:
- a Bachelor's Degree in a related field of study.
- 4-5 Years of professional experience in a related field.
To be considered for this position at the Research Area Specialist Associate level, applicants must possess:
- a Bachelor's Degree in a related field of study.
- 1-3 Years of professional experience in a related field.
Desired Qualifications*
Additional qualifications that will help candidates succeed in this role at any level:
- Prior experience providing resource navigation, care coordination, case management, outreach, brief intervention, or follow-up support to patients, clients, or research participants.
- Prior training or experience with risk reduction approaches to substance use, motivational interviewing, or participant-centered intervention.
- Experience working with or advocating for rural, underserved and under-resourced populations, particularly people who use substances or individuals with mental health, housing, transportation, insurance, or social service needs.
- Previous research experience, particularly experience with participant recruitment, informed consent, participant tracking, data collection, data entry, retention activities, or following research protocols.
- Familiarity with barriers to care in rural Michigan communities, including transportation, stigma, limited service availability, broadband/technology access, cost, insurance, and workforce shortages.
Additional qualifications that will help candidates succeed in this role at the Intermediate Level:
- Master's Degree in a related field.
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
The person(s) in this position will be responsible for completing a schedule consisting of 40 hours a week, usually held within 5 days.
Our typical workday is either 9am to 5pm or 8am to 4pm based on manager's approval. Some weekend or evening shifts will be needed to meet the goals/needs of the research grant(s).
Flexible hours are available for staff while we work remotely for participant-facing or research activities only or based on manager discretion and approval.
Work Locations
Our team is currently working in a hybrid model, with onsite work days taking place at our offices in Ann Arbor, MI.
Candidates for this position may be required to visit community sites and collaborate with research partners (including the Department of Veterans Affairs) throughout the State of Michigan, thus must have reliable transportation to meet the in-person requirements of the role, when necessary. The hybrid model of this position may change based on research/grant needs or University of Michigan policy updates.
Underfill Statement
This position may be underfilled at a lower classification depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate.
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 any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
E-Verify
The University of Michigan participates with the federal EVerify system. Individuals hired into positions that are funded by a federal contract with the FAR EVerify clause must have their identity and work eligibility confirmed by the EVerify system. This position is identified as a position that may include the EVerify requirement.
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 Opening ID
282002
Working Title
Addiction Research Area Specialist Intermediate/Research Area Specialist Associate Underfill (Clinical Service Specialist)
Job Title
Research Area Specialist Inter
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 Psych Addiction
Posting Begin/End Date
8/21/2026 - 9/04/2026
Career Interest
Research
See All 36 Clinical Research Assistant Jobs in Michigan
Find roles in Michigan that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find JobsClinical Research Assistant Jobs by City in Michigan
Where Michigan roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Clinical Research Assistant Job Market in Michigan
A snapshot from current Michigan openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Science & Research
- Healthcare & Medical Services
- Education
What Michigan Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in clinical research assistant jobs across Michigan.
- Bachelor's degree in life sciences, public health, or a related clinical field
- ACRP or SoCRA certification (CCRC or CCRP) preferred or required by many Michigan research sites
- Experience with Good Clinical Practice guidelines and ICH regulatory standards
- Proficiency in electronic data capture systems such as REDCap or Medidata Rave
- Strong patient communication skills for informed consent and study visit coordination
- Ability to maintain regulatory binders and prepare documents for IRB submission
Clinical Research Assistant Jobs in Michigan: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a clinical research assistant in Michigan?
Michigan does not require a state-issued license specific to clinical research assistants, so entry centers on education and credentials recognized by hiring institutions. Most Michigan research sites expect at least a bachelor's degree in a life science, nursing, or public health field. Earning certification through the Association of Clinical Research Professionals or the Society of Clinical Research Associates strengthens applications considerably. Michigan Medicine and Henry Ford Health both favor candidates who have completed Good Clinical Practice training before their first interview.
Which companies hire clinical research assistants in Michigan?
Employers hiring clinical research assistants in Michigan right now include Corewell Health, The University of Michigan, and Henry Ford Health, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. Michigan's concentration of academic medical centers and large integrated health systems means research assistant openings are often tied to multi-site trial programs that hire throughout the year.
Which Michigan cities have the most clinical research assistant jobs?
Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Ann Arbor account for the largest share of clinical research assistant openings in Michigan. Ann Arbor's volume is driven by Michigan Medicine and the University of Michigan research enterprise, Detroit draws from Henry Ford Health and Wayne State University's medical programs, and Grand Rapids reflects Spectrum Health's growing clinical trial infrastructure in west Michigan.
Are there remote clinical research assistant jobs in Michigan?
Yes, but they're limited, because the role typically requires on-site patient contact, regulatory binder management, and in-person study visit coordination. About 58% of clinical research assistant openings tied to Michigan are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, and those positions tend to focus on data entry, query resolution, and regulatory document review rather than participant-facing duties.
How can I get hired as a clinical research assistant in Michigan with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is a clinical research coordinator internship or research assistant role within a Michigan academic medical center. Michigan Medicine's Clinical Trials Support Unit and Wayne State University's research offices regularly bring on candidates without prior trial experience if they hold a relevant degree. Moving laterally from a medical assistant, phlebotomy, or patient services role within Henry Ford Health or Spectrum Health is another well-used route. Completing a Good Clinical Practice course before applying gives candidates a clear edge.
Where can I find and apply to clinical research assistant jobs in Michigan?
You can find and apply to clinical research assistant jobs in Michigan on Migrate Mate, which lists current Michigan openings updated regularly. Search the listings, identify the roles that match your background and location, and apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 36 Clinical Research Assistant Jobs in Michigan
Find roles in Michigan that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Jobs