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 highlight your experiences that directly relate to this position.

With questions about the position or office please email MICOM at [email protected], for requests for accommodations or support with the application process please email UMSI Human Resources at [email protected].

Job Summary

The Michigan Public Health Integrated Center for Outbreak Analytics and Modeling (MICOM) housed in the Department of Epidemiology at the University of Michigan School of Public Health in collaboration with College of Engineering and School of Information is looking for an independent and motivated Lead Research Specialist to join our team. The Centers for Disease Control are funding MICOM as part of an outbreak response network, with the goal of using data to support decision makers during public health emergencies. Co-Directors Drs. Marisa Eisenberg and Emily Martin and Core Lead Michael Rubyan and their colleagues have an active research program to integrate mathematical modeling with community-based surveillance to understand various facets of public health. The Lead Research Specialist will join an interdisciplinary team of implementation scientists and mixed methods researchers.  The Lead Research Specialist will play a central role in qualitative data collection, analysis, reporting, contributions to high-impact research aimed at informing health policy, and systems improvement.

Reporting to the Center Manager, who is located within the School of Information, you will have a background in qualitative research, and an interest in translating research into real-world impact. You will oversee a small team of interviewers and junior analysts, ensuring quality in data collection and analysis.

This is a term-limited position for up to 1 year with the potential for renewal based on availability of work, availability of funding, and overall performance.

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 (Vacation, Holidays, Season Days, Family Leave)
• A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions after 12 months of eligible service, with immediate vesting
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
• Dental and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
• Tuition support program

Responsibilities*

• Design and conduct qualitative interviews and focus groups with partners.
• Analyze qualitative data using thematic, content, or grounded theory approaches.
• Manage and code data using tools such as NVivo or MAXQDA
• Develop one-pagers and research briefs tailored for federal, state, and local government audiences.
• Collaborate with implementation scientists, mixed methods researchers, and policy experts.

Required Qualifications*

• A Master's Degree in a health science discipline, public health, social sciences, or related field.
• At least 5 years of relevant research experience is required.
• Experience working in a public health academic environment.
• Demonstrated experience using qualitative analysis software (e.g. NVivo, MAXQDA).
• Knowledge and demonstrated experience with research study management, management of programs conducted under public health surveillance guidance, and requirements regarding the conduct of human subject research.

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for 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.

You will work fully remote in this role. You may be required to travel due to conferences related to the center or visit other research centers. Punctual and regular attendance is required. You may work during non-business hours and on weekends based on the requirements for your position.

Additional Information

This role will have supervisory responsibilities with students and potentially staff.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

This is a term-limited position for up to 1 year with the potential for renewal based on availability of work, availability of funding, and overall performance.

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 anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.