Research Specialist Jobs in Michigan
Research Specialist jobs in Michigan are open across Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Auburn Hills and other Michigan metros, with employers like The University of Michigan, Wayne State University, and Eastern Michigan University hiring at every experience level. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
Find Research Specialist JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 14+ Research Specialist jobs
How to Apply
A detailed cover letter is required for consideration when applying for this position and should be uploaded via the UM Careers website as the first page(s) of a single, electronic document of application materials that also includes your CV or resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline your skills and experience that directly relate to the duties described below. In addition, please provide contact information for two or three references.
Questions about the position can be sent to the PI (Dr. Kristina Smiley) at [email protected].
Job Summary
The Smiley Lab at the University of Michigan is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Research Laboratory Specialist to join our new and growing laboratory. Our lab investigates the neuroendocrine mechanisms underlying parental behavior, with a particular focus on how the hormones associated with parenting modulate sensory processing of offspring vocal cues in an avian model system (zebra finch). This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a newly funded NIH project and to play a central role in establishing in vivo electrophysiology techniques from the ground up in a new lab environment. The Research Laboratory Specialist will be an integral part of the research team, working closely with the PI and other researchers in the lab to ensure smooth execution of experiments and daily lab operations.
Responsibilities
- Independently develop and maintain an in vivo electrophysiology system (including ordering and configuring equipment, troubleshooting hardware/software, and piloting experimental protocols).
- Independently design, conduct, and analyze electrophysiological research experiments in awake, behaving animals related to the lab's research goals.
- Has oversight for day-to-day operation of a specialized research laboratory focused on the neuroscience of songbird behavior.
- Supervise exempt and non-exempt research and support personnel, including training junior lab members (graduate and undergraduate students) in technical methods and experimental procedures related to in vivo electrophysiology.
- Co-authors publications and may co-present results with Principal Investigator at meetings and/or conferences.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Psychology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field.
- 4-5 years of related experience with in vivo electrophysiology in animal models.
- Demonstrated ability to conduct and analyze experiments independently.
- Proficiency in programming and data analysis (e.g., MATLAB, Python).
Desired Qualifications
- Master's degree or above in related field.
- Previous experience with neuroendocrinology, hormone manipulation, or sensory neurobiology.
- Experience with setting up custom hardware/electrode building and troubleshooting complex experimental systems (e.g., microdrives, tetrodes, cannulation systems).
- Experience working with avian model systems.
- Experience mentoring or training students in technical methods.
- A collaborative mindset, with enthusiasm for contributing to a new laboratory setup and culture, along with excellent organizational, communication, and record-keeping skills.
Why Work at Michigan?
The University of Michigan offers an extraordinary intellectual environment, with world-class neuroscience, psychology, and biomedical research communities, extensive core facilities, and a vibrant culture of collaboration across disciplines. Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan a city consistently ranked among the best places to live in the U.S. you'll enjoy a dynamic, culturally rich community with excellent restaurants, music and arts, easy access to nature, and a welcoming, progressive atmosphere. Successful applicants will join a vibrant community of scientists in the Brain & Behavior area and the UM Psychology Department, as well as through the Michigan Neuroscience Institute.
In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, the University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:
- Generous time off, including vacation time, sick time, holiday and season days.
- A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting.
- Many choices for comprehensive health insurance.
- Life insurance.
- Long-term disability coverage.
- Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
In addition, LSA offers:
- Strong commitment to work/life balance.
- Flexible work arrangements with respect to campus stakeholder needs.
- Enhanced tuition support programs for LSA courses.
Being part of something greater, of serving a larger mission of discovery and care that's the heart of what drives people to work at Michigan. In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. It's adding a purpose to your profession. Work at Michigan and become a victor for the greater good.
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.
Additional Information
The salary range is $53,000 to $67,000. Please note a higher salary may be offered based on equity and the selected candidate's experience. Please note a higher salary may be offered based on equity and the selected candidate's experience.
This is a 12-month term-limited position with the possibility of renewal. The anticipated start date is August 1, 2026, however, the start date can be flexible.
As one of the world's great liberal arts and sciences colleges, LSA pushes the boundaries of what is understood about the human experience and the natural world, and we foster the next generation of rigorous and empathetic thinkers, creators, and contributors to the state of Michigan, the nation, and the world.
To learn more about LSA's Mission, Vision and Values, please visit lsa.umich.edu/strategicvision.
Background Screening
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 checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
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.
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
279097
Working Title
in vivo electrophysiology Research Laboratory Specialist
Job Title
Research Lab Specialist Inter
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Exempt
Organizational Group
College Of Lsa
Department
LSA Psychology
Posting Begin/End Date
6/19/2026 - 8/02/2026
Salary
$53,000.00 - $67,000.00
Career Interest
Research
How to Apply
A detailed cover letter is required for consideration when applying for this position and should be uploaded via the UM Careers website as the first page(s) of a single, electronic document of application materials that also includes your CV or resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline your skills and experience that directly relate to the duties described below. In addition, please provide contact information for two or three references.
Questions about the position can be sent to the PI (Dr. Kristina Smiley) at [email protected].
Job Summary
The Smiley Lab at the University of Michigan is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Research Laboratory Specialist to join our new and growing laboratory. Our lab investigates the neuroendocrine mechanisms underlying parental behavior, with a particular focus on how the hormones associated with parenting modulate sensory processing of offspring vocal cues in an avian model system (zebra finch). This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a newly funded NIH project and to play a central role in establishing in vivo electrophysiology techniques from the ground up in a new lab environment. The Research Laboratory Specialist will be an integral part of the research team, working closely with the PI and other researchers in the lab to ensure smooth execution of experiments and daily lab operations.
Responsibilities
- Independently develop and maintain an in vivo electrophysiology system (including ordering and configuring equipment, troubleshooting hardware/software, and piloting experimental protocols).
- Independently design, conduct, and analyze electrophysiological research experiments in awake, behaving animals related to the lab's research goals.
- Has oversight for day-to-day operation of a specialized research laboratory focused on the neuroscience of songbird behavior.
- Supervise exempt and non-exempt research and support personnel, including training junior lab members (graduate and undergraduate students) in technical methods and experimental procedures related to in vivo electrophysiology.
- Co-authors publications and may co-present results with Principal Investigator at meetings and/or conferences.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Psychology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field.
- 4-5 years of related experience with in vivo electrophysiology in animal models.
- Demonstrated ability to conduct and analyze experiments independently.
- Proficiency in programming and data analysis (e.g., MATLAB, Python).
Desired Qualifications
- Master's degree or above in related field.
- Previous experience with neuroendocrinology, hormone manipulation, or sensory neurobiology.
- Experience with setting up custom hardware/electrode building and troubleshooting complex experimental systems (e.g., microdrives, tetrodes, cannulation systems).
- Experience working with avian model systems.
- Experience mentoring or training students in technical methods.
- A collaborative mindset, with enthusiasm for contributing to a new laboratory setup and culture, along with excellent organizational, communication, and record-keeping skills.
Why Work at Michigan?
The University of Michigan offers an extraordinary intellectual environment, with world-class neuroscience, psychology, and biomedical research communities, extensive core facilities, and a vibrant culture of collaboration across disciplines. Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan a city consistently ranked among the best places to live in the U.S. you'll enjoy a dynamic, culturally rich community with excellent restaurants, music and arts, easy access to nature, and a welcoming, progressive atmosphere. Successful applicants will join a vibrant community of scientists in the Brain & Behavior area and the UM Psychology Department, as well as through the Michigan Neuroscience Institute.
In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, the University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:
- Generous time off, including vacation time, sick time, holiday and season days.
- A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting.
- Many choices for comprehensive health insurance.
- Life insurance.
- Long-term disability coverage.
- Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
In addition, LSA offers:
- Strong commitment to work/life balance.
- Flexible work arrangements with respect to campus stakeholder needs.
- Enhanced tuition support programs for LSA courses.
Being part of something greater, of serving a larger mission of discovery and care that's the heart of what drives people to work at Michigan. In some way, great or small, every person here helps to advance this world-class institution. It's adding a purpose to your profession. Work at Michigan and become a victor for the greater good.
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.
Additional Information
The salary range is $53,000 to $67,000. Please note a higher salary may be offered based on equity and the selected candidate's experience. Please note a higher salary may be offered based on equity and the selected candidate's experience.
This is a 12-month term-limited position with the possibility of renewal. The anticipated start date is August 1, 2026, however, the start date can be flexible.
As one of the world's great liberal arts and sciences colleges, LSA pushes the boundaries of what is understood about the human experience and the natural world, and we foster the next generation of rigorous and empathetic thinkers, creators, and contributors to the state of Michigan, the nation, and the world.
To learn more about LSA's Mission, Vision and Values, please visit lsa.umich.edu/strategicvision.
Background Screening
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 checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
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.
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
279097
Working Title
in vivo electrophysiology Research Laboratory Specialist
Job Title
Research Lab Specialist Inter
Work Location
Ann Arbor Campus
Ann Arbor, MI
Modes of Work
Onsite
Full/Part Time
Full-Time
Regular/Temporary
Regular
FLSA Status
Exempt
Organizational Group
College Of Lsa
Department
LSA Psychology
Posting Begin/End Date
6/19/2026 - 8/02/2026
Salary
$53,000.00 - $67,000.00
Career Interest
Research
See All 14 Research Specialist Jobs in Michigan
Find roles in Michigan that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Research Specialist JobsResearch Specialist Jobs by City in Michigan
Where Michigan roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Research Specialist Job Market in Michigan
A snapshot from current Michigan openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- The University of Michigan7
- Wayne State University2
- Eastern Michigan University1
- Henry Ford Health1
- Project Delivery Partners1
Top Industries Hiring
- Education10
- Consulting & Professional Services2
- Automotive1
- Construction & Real Estate1
- Government & Public Sector1
What Michigan Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in research specialist jobs across Michigan.
- Bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field such as social science, public health, or biology
- Experience designing or executing quantitative or qualitative research studies
- Proficiency with statistical or qualitative analysis software such as SPSS, Stata, R, or NVivo
- Strong written communication skills for producing reports, briefs, or academic manuscripts
- Familiarity with IRB protocols, research ethics standards, or regulatory compliance requirements
- Experience conducting literature reviews and synthesizing findings from peer-reviewed sources
Research Specialist Jobs in Michigan: Frequently Asked Questions
How many research specialist jobs are there in Michigan?
There are 14+ research specialist openings in Michigan on Migrate Mate as of June 2026, with the most roles in Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Auburn Hills. New positions post regularly as employers across Michigan hire.
Which Michigan cities have the most research specialist jobs?
Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Auburn Hills have the most research specialist openings in Michigan right now, with additional roles spread across smaller metros statewide.
Which companies hire research specialists in Michigan?
Employers hiring research specialists in Michigan include The University of Michigan, Wayne State University, and Eastern Michigan University, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026.
Are there remote research specialist jobs in Michigan?
Yes. About 21% of research specialist openings tied to Michigan are remote or hybrid as of June 2026. The rest are on-site roles based in Michigan metros.
How do I apply for research specialist jobs in Michigan?
You can apply to research specialist jobs in Michigan directly on Migrate Mate. Search the listings above, find roles that match your experience and preferred Michigan location, then apply to each one that fits.
See All 14 Research Specialist Jobs in Michigan
Find roles in Michigan that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Research Specialist Jobs