Postdoctoral Researcher Jobs at Michigan State University with Visa Sponsorship
Postdoctoral Researcher roles at Michigan State University sit at the intersection of independent scholarship and collaborative research, spanning departments from engineering to life sciences. MSU has an established process for sponsoring international researchers, making it a realistic target for candidates on work visas or transitioning from F-1 OPT.
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Get Access To All JobsLocation: East Lansing, Michigan, United States
Position Summary
The Education Policy Innovation Collaborative (EPIC) at Michigan State University (MSU) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate who is skilled in quantitative research methods and has expertise in education policy, with a specific interest in policy and program evaluation. EPIC is a policy lab located within the College of Education at Michigan State University. EPIC partners with state and school district leaders to produce rigorous and objective multi-method research with consequence that strengthens evidence-based decision making for practice and policy in Michigan, with implications for historically and currently underserved students throughout the country. The EPIC team includes Dr. Madeline Mavrogordato and EPIC staff researchers, EPIC-affiliated faculty, several postdoctoral research associates, and graduate and undergraduate students.
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work with an interdisciplinary team of scholars focused on research to improve educational opportunities and outcomes for Michigan students, especially those from underserved populations and communities. This includes assessing the implementation and efficacy of state and local policies, programs, and investments in public education and providing continuous feedback about the state of the public school system and educator workforce. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will be tasked with using large-scale state administrative panel data and survey data collected from students, teachers, and principals across the state of Michigan in both descriptive and quasi-experimental econometric analyses.
There will be opportunities for the Postdoctoral Research Associate to engage in research regarding teacher labor markets, education finance, student outcomes, and academic recovery. In addition to engaging in EPIC research, the Postdoctoral Research Associate will be supported in establishing their own research agenda within EPIC’s major focus areas. In support of this, the successful candidate will be able to leverage key features of EPIC and the College, including EPIC’s unprecedented data sharing agreement with the State of Michigan that provides access to all administrative educational data sets with regular updates.
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work with other EPIC researchers to conduct appropriate and rigorous quantitative analyses, co-author peer-reviewed publications, and present research at national conferences and to policymaker partners in Michigan. In addition, the Postdoctoral Research Associate will gain valuable experience working with agency partners, interfacing with state officials and stakeholders, and providing them with evidence to inform policymaking and program implementation. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will also gain experience with project management and leading a team of doctoral student and staff researchers.
The Postdoctoral Research Associate must have a completed doctoral degree or be on track to successfully defend their dissertation prior to beginning the position. Preference will be given to candidates with strong econometric skills, experience working with large administrative datasets, facility with analyzing survey data, and strong evidence of writing capability. Because EPIC is a collaborative and fast-paced center, we are seeking a person who is excited to be a member of a dynamic and motivated group, and who is driven by a desire to produce both rigorous and policy-relevant research aimed at driving improvements in educational outcomes for Michigan students.
The position, which includes benefits, is a fixed-term annual, 100% time beginning July 1, 2026 (although the start date is flexible and we welcome candidates who can start earlier) with the potential for annual renewals in the College of Education as funding permits. Postdoctoral Research Associate roles are generally structured to work with EPIC for two years, with the option for a third year, should interest and project needs permit, and enter the job market with support from EPIC.
This position is primarily office-based, with the opportunity for a hybrid schedule based on center needs.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Degree
Doctorate - economics, public policy, education or another related field
Minimum Requirements
- A Ph.D. in economics, public policy, education or another related field;
- Expertise with econometric research methods, particularly quasi-experimental design and panel data methods;
- Significant research experience working in Stata;
- A track record of publication, or evidence of strong potential;
- Ability to work collaboratively;
- Interest in pursuing independent and collaborative policy-oriented research in the field of public education;
- Interest in producing applied research in partnership with and of relevance to policymakers;
- Excellent interpersonal, organizational, verbal and written communication skills; and
- Potential for developing a substantial research and publication record and scholarly recognition in the field.
Desired Qualifications
- Experience with survey design and analysis;
- Experience working on large-scale team-based projects;
- Experience coordinating data collection and analysis activities across a large team; and
- Experience mentoring early-stage graduate or undergraduate researchers.
Required Application Materials
Interested candidates should send:
1) a letter of application stating qualifications for and reasons for interest in this position;
2) a current curriculum vitae;
3) a writing sample produced for an academic audience (e.g. working paper, draft manuscript, published article)
4) a writing sample that demonstrates the applicant’s ability to translate academic research for policymaker and/or practitioner audiences; and
5) the names and contact information for three references.
Special Instructions
We will begin reviewing applications on January 26, 2026, and will continue on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Questions can be directed to Emily Mohr (emohr@msu.edu).
This position is primarily office-based, with the opportunity for a hybrid schedule based on center needs.
Review of Applications Begins On
01/26/2026
Remote Work Statement
MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.
MSU Statement
Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.
Location: East Lansing, Michigan, United States
Position Summary
The Education Policy Innovation Collaborative (EPIC) at Michigan State University (MSU) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate who is skilled in quantitative research methods and has expertise in education policy, with a specific interest in policy and program evaluation. EPIC is a policy lab located within the College of Education at Michigan State University. EPIC partners with state and school district leaders to produce rigorous and objective multi-method research with consequence that strengthens evidence-based decision making for practice and policy in Michigan, with implications for historically and currently underserved students throughout the country. The EPIC team includes Dr. Madeline Mavrogordato and EPIC staff researchers, EPIC-affiliated faculty, several postdoctoral research associates, and graduate and undergraduate students.
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work with an interdisciplinary team of scholars focused on research to improve educational opportunities and outcomes for Michigan students, especially those from underserved populations and communities. This includes assessing the implementation and efficacy of state and local policies, programs, and investments in public education and providing continuous feedback about the state of the public school system and educator workforce. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will be tasked with using large-scale state administrative panel data and survey data collected from students, teachers, and principals across the state of Michigan in both descriptive and quasi-experimental econometric analyses.
There will be opportunities for the Postdoctoral Research Associate to engage in research regarding teacher labor markets, education finance, student outcomes, and academic recovery. In addition to engaging in EPIC research, the Postdoctoral Research Associate will be supported in establishing their own research agenda within EPIC’s major focus areas. In support of this, the successful candidate will be able to leverage key features of EPIC and the College, including EPIC’s unprecedented data sharing agreement with the State of Michigan that provides access to all administrative educational data sets with regular updates.
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work with other EPIC researchers to conduct appropriate and rigorous quantitative analyses, co-author peer-reviewed publications, and present research at national conferences and to policymaker partners in Michigan. In addition, the Postdoctoral Research Associate will gain valuable experience working with agency partners, interfacing with state officials and stakeholders, and providing them with evidence to inform policymaking and program implementation. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will also gain experience with project management and leading a team of doctoral student and staff researchers.
The Postdoctoral Research Associate must have a completed doctoral degree or be on track to successfully defend their dissertation prior to beginning the position. Preference will be given to candidates with strong econometric skills, experience working with large administrative datasets, facility with analyzing survey data, and strong evidence of writing capability. Because EPIC is a collaborative and fast-paced center, we are seeking a person who is excited to be a member of a dynamic and motivated group, and who is driven by a desire to produce both rigorous and policy-relevant research aimed at driving improvements in educational outcomes for Michigan students.
The position, which includes benefits, is a fixed-term annual, 100% time beginning July 1, 2026 (although the start date is flexible and we welcome candidates who can start earlier) with the potential for annual renewals in the College of Education as funding permits. Postdoctoral Research Associate roles are generally structured to work with EPIC for two years, with the option for a third year, should interest and project needs permit, and enter the job market with support from EPIC.
This position is primarily office-based, with the opportunity for a hybrid schedule based on center needs.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Degree
Doctorate - economics, public policy, education or another related field
Minimum Requirements
- A Ph.D. in economics, public policy, education or another related field;
- Expertise with econometric research methods, particularly quasi-experimental design and panel data methods;
- Significant research experience working in Stata;
- A track record of publication, or evidence of strong potential;
- Ability to work collaboratively;
- Interest in pursuing independent and collaborative policy-oriented research in the field of public education;
- Interest in producing applied research in partnership with and of relevance to policymakers;
- Excellent interpersonal, organizational, verbal and written communication skills; and
- Potential for developing a substantial research and publication record and scholarly recognition in the field.
Desired Qualifications
- Experience with survey design and analysis;
- Experience working on large-scale team-based projects;
- Experience coordinating data collection and analysis activities across a large team; and
- Experience mentoring early-stage graduate or undergraduate researchers.
Required Application Materials
Interested candidates should send:
1) a letter of application stating qualifications for and reasons for interest in this position;
2) a current curriculum vitae;
3) a writing sample produced for an academic audience (e.g. working paper, draft manuscript, published article)
4) a writing sample that demonstrates the applicant’s ability to translate academic research for policymaker and/or practitioner audiences; and
5) the names and contact information for three references.
Special Instructions
We will begin reviewing applications on January 26, 2026, and will continue on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Questions can be directed to Emily Mohr (emohr@msu.edu).
This position is primarily office-based, with the opportunity for a hybrid schedule based on center needs.
Review of Applications Begins On
01/26/2026
Remote Work Statement
MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.
MSU Statement
Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.
See all 33+ Postdoctoral Researcher at Michigan State University jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Postdoctoral Researcher at Michigan State University roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Postdoctoral Researcher Jobs at Michigan State University Jobs
Align your research focus with MSU departments
MSU hires postdocs across dozens of colleges, so targeting departments where your dissertation or prior research aligns directly will strengthen your application. Faculty-driven hiring means the principal investigator often initiates sponsorship, not a central HR team.
Secure certified degree equivalency documentation early
If your doctorate is from a non-U.S. institution, get a credential evaluation from a NACES-recognized evaluator before applying. MSU's international office and sponsoring PI will need this to confirm you meet the specialty occupation threshold for H-1B eligibility.
Understand how J-1 and H-1B sponsorship differ at research universities
MSU commonly uses J-1 Exchange Visitor status for postdocs through its DS-2019 process, which is faster than H-1B but carries a two-year home residency requirement for some nationalities. Confirm your J-1 waiver eligibility before defaulting to this path.
Browse open Postdoctoral Researcher roles on Migrate Mate
Use Migrate Mate to filter MSU postdoc openings by visa type so you can focus on roles where sponsorship is already part of the hiring plan, rather than negotiating it after an offer is extended.
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Find Postdoctoral Researcher at Michigan State University JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Does Michigan State University sponsor H-1B visas for Postdoctoral Researchers?
Yes, Michigan State University sponsors H-1B visas for Postdoctoral Researchers through its Office for International Students and Scholars. The process is typically initiated by the hiring department or principal investigator once an offer is extended. Because postdoc roles meet the specialty occupation requirement, H-1B eligibility is generally straightforward, though cap-subject filings follow USCIS's April registration window with an October 1 start date.
How do I apply for Postdoctoral Researcher jobs at Michigan State University?
Postdoctoral Researcher positions at MSU are posted through the university's careers portal and individual department or lab websites. Applications typically require a CV, cover letter, research statement, and references. You can also browse verified openings filtered by visa sponsorship on Migrate Mate, which helps you identify roles where international candidates are actively being considered before you apply.
Which visa types does Michigan State University commonly use for Postdoctoral Researchers?
MSU sponsors Postdoctoral Researchers on several visa types, including H-1B, J-1, F-1 OPT (including STEM OPT extension), TN (for Canadian and Mexican nationals in qualifying fields), and employment-based Green Cards through the EB-2 or EB-3 categories. J-1 is frequently used for short-term or externally funded postdocs, while H-1B is more common for longer-term or tenure-track-adjacent positions.
What qualifications does Michigan State University expect for Postdoctoral Researcher roles?
A completed doctoral degree in a relevant field is the baseline requirement for all postdoc positions at MSU. Most roles also expect a record of peer-reviewed publications, demonstrated expertise in a specific research methodology, and strong written communication skills for grant writing. Some positions require proficiency with particular lab techniques, software platforms, or datasets specific to the hiring department's active research projects.
How long does the visa sponsorship process take for a Postdoctoral Researcher at Michigan State University?
Timeline depends on the visa type. J-1 DS-2019 issuance through MSU typically takes three to six weeks once the offer is confirmed. H-1B cap-subject petitions follow USCIS's annual lottery cycle with a mandatory October 1 start, so timing your offer relative to the April registration window matters. Premium processing through USCIS can reduce H-1B adjudication time to 15 business days for an additional fee.
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