Apply Now

How to Apply

To be considered for this position please submit the following documents, via this Interfolio link: https://apply.interfolio.com/159415

Applications not submitted through Interfolio will not be reviewed. Candidates who do not upload all of the following documents will not be considered for this position.

Resume/CVCover 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 plansPersonal 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 information on what should be included in this statement. 

If you have questions about the content of these documents, please visit the JPR webpage FAQ section.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team that reflects a wide range of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds. We strongly encourage applications from all interested individuals, including those from underrepresented or historically marginalized groups. 

Job 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 for the 2025 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. 

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.

Responsibilities*

Research (90%)

Collect, record, clean, and/or document data according to study protocolsCurate research articles and conduct literature reviews Create reference lists for manuscripts and grant proposalsAssist with the creation of tables and charts for presentations, manuscripts for publication, and/or grant proposalsStatistical or data processing, data integrationAssist with the dissemination of research findingsParticipate in research meetings as necessary

JPR Programming (10%)

Participate in cohort-based activities including career and professional development, mentoring, and educational opportunitiesRequired Qualifications*Bachelor's degree in a social science or related field granted December 2023 to June 2025Prior research engagement with or experience in social science research demonstrated by coursework, professional experience or extracurricular activitiesExcellent oral and written communication skillsStrong organizational skills, attention to detail, and accuracyProficiency in Microsoft Office and Google SuiteDemonstrated interest in contributing to a social science field of research

Education Statement- The JPR opportunity is specifically designed for recent post-baccalaureate candidates who have received their bachelor's degree within the last two years (December 2023 to June 2025) and have not pursued a master's degree.

Work Locations

This is a full-time position onsite in Ann Arbor with the potential for remote or hybrid work arrangements based on the department policy.

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 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.

Benefits at the University of 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 any eligible family members and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:  Learn more about U-M benefits.

A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting upon meeting eligibility requirements Many choices for comprehensive health insuranceLife insuranceLong-term disability coverageFlexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expensesBackground 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

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.