Research Associate Jobs in Michigan
Research Associate jobs in Michigan are actively sought across the state's robust academic, pharmaceutical, and automotive research sectors, with openings at every level from entry-level lab assistant to senior research scientist. Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Grand Rapids anchor the strongest hiring activity, where institutions and companies like the University of Michigan, Pfizer, and Dow Chemical maintain deep research workforces. The most in-demand specialties include clinical research, materials science, and biomedical sciences. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 4 of 30+ Research Associate 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 30 Research Associate Jobs in Michigan
Find roles in Michigan that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Research Associate JobsResearch Associate Jobs by City in Michigan
Where Michigan roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Research Associate Job Market in Michigan
A snapshot from current Michigan openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Education
What Michigan Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in research associate jobs across Michigan.
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field such as biology, chemistry, or engineering
- Experience with laboratory techniques including PCR, cell culture, or data analysis software
- Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practice standards and research compliance protocols
- Proficiency in statistical analysis tools such as R, SPSS, or SAS for data interpretation
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for preparing reports and presenting findings
- Ability to collaborate within interdisciplinary teams in academic or industry research environments
Research Associate Jobs in Michigan: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a research associate in Michigan?
Most research associate positions in Michigan require at minimum a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, environmental science, or engineering, with many roles preferring a master's degree. Michigan does not issue a state-specific license for research associates in most settings, though clinical research roles may require certification through bodies like the Society of Clinical Research Associates. University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and major pharma employers typically look for candidates with hands-on lab experience gained through internships or undergraduate research programs.
Which companies hire research associates in Michigan?
Employers hiring research associates in Michigan right now include The University of Michigan, Oakland University, and Wayne State University, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. Michigan's strong pharmaceutical, automotive technology, and university research sectors mean hiring tends to be concentrated among large anchor institutions and life sciences companies with long-standing Michigan operations.
Which Michigan cities have the most research associate jobs?
Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Rochester lead Michigan for research associate openings. Ann Arbor's concentration of activity is driven by the University of Michigan's extensive research enterprise and the surrounding life sciences corridor, while Detroit supports demand through automotive R&D and healthcare systems, and Grand Rapids draws on its growing medical device and pharmaceutical manufacturing base.
Are there remote research associate jobs in Michigan?
Yes, but they're rare. Research associate roles are often hands-on, requiring physical presence in laboratories, clinics, or research facilities. About 35% of research associate openings tied to Michigan are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, which reflects the field's general reliance on in-person lab work. The portions of the role most suited to remote work include data analysis, literature review, and report writing.
How can I get hired as a research associate in Michigan with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is through undergraduate or post-baccalaureate research assistant roles at Michigan's major research universities, particularly the University of Michigan and Michigan State University, which regularly hire candidates with limited experience for lab support positions. From there, lateral moves from roles like lab technician, research coordinator, or clinical data associate are common pathways into research associate titles. Employers across Michigan's life sciences corridor in Ann Arbor and the pharmaceutical sector in Kalamazoo often recruit new graduates who have completed relevant coursework and can demonstrate hands-on project experience through a portfolio or thesis work.
Where can I find and apply to research associate jobs in Michigan?
You can find and apply to research associate jobs in Michigan on Migrate Mate, which lists current Michigan openings across industries including life sciences, academic research, and technology. Find roles that fit your background and apply directly to the employers posting them.
See All 30 Research Associate Jobs in Michigan
Find roles in Michigan that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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