"Research Associate - Junior Professional Researcher"

Details

Posted: 02-Jan-26

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan

Categories: Staff/Administrative

Internal Number: 271827

To be considered for this position please submit the following documents, via this Interfolio link:

• Resume/CV
• Cover letter: Please submit a comprehensive cover letter that addresses your area(s) of interest in social science research, any research or professional experiences that contribute to your qualifications for this position, why you are interested in the JPR Program, and how you see this time fitting into your long-term plans.
• Personal Statement: Please describe, in one page or less, how your personal background or experiences have contributed to your interest in social science.

Applicants should consult the JPR website FAQ for further details on what should be included in these documents.

The University of Michigan Institute for Social Research (ISR) is the world's largest academic social science survey and research organization. We are a leader in developing and applying new social science methods and are committed to educating the next generation of social scientists. Our globally renowned training programs have produced some of the most influential scholars of today, and play a core role in our imperative to foster greater diversity in the social sciences.

ISR seeks to hire multiple research associates for the 2026 cohort of the Junior Professional Researcher (JPR) Program. This program offers recent college graduates the opportunity to gain work experience in social science research and collaborate with more senior colleagues and project teams. JPRs work for two years as full-time research associates for one or more faculty mentors and engage in additional education and training activities, including taking courses through our summer programs, participating in professional development workshops, and attending ISR research seminars.

This is a two-year term-limited position located in Ann Arbor, MI.

Visa Note: We are currently unable to consider candidates who are not authorized to work in the United States. Additionally, we are not offering visa sponsorship for this position. Applicants must have appropriate work authorization at the time of application.

Research (90%)

• Collect, record, clean, and/or document data according to study protocols
• Curate research articles and conduct literature reviews
• Create reference lists for manuscripts and grant proposals
• Assist with the creation of tables and charts for presentations, manuscripts for publication, and/or grant proposals
• Statistical or data processing, data integration
• Assist with the dissemination of research findings
• Participate in research meetings as necessary

JPR Programming (10%)

• Participate in cohort-based activities including career and professional development, mentoring, and educational opportunities

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a social science or related field granted between 2024 to June 2026
• Prior research engagement with or experience in social science research demonstrated by coursework, professional experience or extracurricular activities
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and accuracy
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Suite
• Demonstrated interest in contributing to a social science field of research

Education Statement: The JPR program is specifically designed for recent post-baccalaureate candidates who have received their bachelor's degree within the last two years (between 2024 and June 2026) and have not pursued a master's degree.

Flexible work guidelines for this position are 100% in-office for the first 30 days. After successfully onboarding/training, a hybrid work schedule will be available to work three days onsite and two days remotely.