How to Apply

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

• A cover letter that describes your specific area(s) of interest in social science research, any experiences you have had that led to your interest in social science research, and how you envision this position fitting into your longer-term plans.
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae, including the names of 2 references. Please also list up to 3 relevant social science courses that you have completed.
• A written diversity statement that describes your commitment to, and personal achievements in, advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion goals within an academic, employment, extracurricular activity, or other personal settings, (up to 1 page).

All documents must be submitted in one file for the system to accept your application. Candidates who do not include all of the above information will not be considered for the position.

Candidates from underrepresented backgrounds or historically underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

Summary

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 who will participate in a cohort-based program for recent college graduates who have a passion for social science research. The Junior Professional Researcher (JPR) program offers an opportunity to gain work experience in a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment. 

Candidates will develop strong research skills working with data, while collaborating with more senior colleagues and project teams. They will have an opportunity to hone their skills and acquire new ones while gaining first-hand exposure to cutting-edge social science research.

In addition to gaining valuable hands-on experience, the JPR cohort will be a community for fostering connections and a welcoming environment for scholars. ISR faculty members will mentor cohort members as they take the next steps toward their research careers. Regular seminars and social events will provide learning and networking opportunities.

Why Work at Michigan?

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

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

Learn more about U-M benefits.

Responsibilities*

Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

Research (80%)

Collect, record, clean, and/or document data according to the protocol

Curate research articles and conduct reviews of secondary literature

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

Assist with the dissemination of research findings, via websites and/or social media

Participate in research meetings as necessary

Peer Collaborations (20%)

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

Required Qualifications*

We welcome candidates from a wide range of social science disciplinary backgrounds.The successful candidate(s) will have:

Bachelor’s degree granted in a social science-related field, preferably in 2022 or 2023

Excellent oral and written communication skills

Strong attention to detail

Demonstrated interest in contributing to a social science-related field

Demonstrated commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion goals within academia or other settings

Desired Qualifications*

We are especially interested if you also have:

Prior research or engagement with social science research

Additional Information

The salary for this position is $48,000.

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

The Institute for Social Research (ISR) at the University of Michigan seeks to recruit and retain a diverse workforce as a reflection of our commitment to serve the diverse people of Michigan, to maintain the excellence of the university, and to ground our research in varied disciplines, perspectives, and ways of knowing and learning. Please visit our website to learn more about diversity, equity, and inclusion at ISR.

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

03/12/2023

Institute for Social Research job openings are posted for a minimum of fourteen (14) calendar days. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

U-M COVID-19 Vaccination Policy

COVID-19 vaccinations, including one booster when eligible, are required for all University of Michigan students, faculty and staff across all campuses, including Michigan Medicine.  This includes those working remotely and temporary workers.   More information on this new policy is available on the U-M Health Response website or the UM-Dearborn and UM-Flint websites.