Research Fellow - Michigan Psychoneuroimmunology Lab

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How to Apply

The Department of Psychology at the University of Michigan invites applications for a postdoctoral research fellow in the Michigan Psychoneuroimmunology Lab (PI: Dr. Annelise Madison) to begin in Summer 2026 (anticipated start date: August 1, 2026; earlier start is possible if the successful candidate has completed the requirements for a Ph.D. prior to August 1, 2026). The position provides a salary of $62,232-$65,000 per year (a higher salary may be offered based on the selected candidate's experience) and is benefits-eligible. The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of extension for up to one more year, dependent upon performance.

To be considered for the position, applicants should submit their application materials to Dr. Annelise Madison ( [email protected] ) . Please include:

• Cover letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Research statement
• Three writing samples (e.g., recent publications, working papers)
• Three reference letters (submitted by the letter writers to [email protected])
  
  

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Job Summary

The Michigan Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) Lab, led by Dr. Annelise Madison and based in the Department of Psychology at the University of Michigan, investigates the dynamic interactions between psychological processes, the immune system, and physical health. Our research focuses on topics such as stress, inflammation, chronic pain, social connection, and mental health, with an emphasis on uncovering the neurobiological and behavioral mechanisms that underlie resilience and vulnerability to disease. The lab utilizes a range of interdisciplinary and multi-method approaches including advanced statistical modeling, laboratory-based stress paradigms, ecological momentary assessment, and biomarker analysis to link behavioral, physiological, and immunological data in both healthy and clinical populations (e.g., patients with cancer).

In addition to ongoing data collection, the PI has multiple large, PNI-relevant datasets available for analysis and publication. Initiative and a strong desire to publish are highly valued.

The research fellow will be expected to collaborate with the PI and other lab members and conduct empirical research in the topics outlined above. In addition to contribution to ongoing lab projects, the fellow will have the opportunity to pursue their own independent research interests that align with the lab's overall mission. Successful candidates must have completed the requirements for a Ph.D. prior to the starting date, and must demonstrate a strong interest in, and commitment to, interdisciplinary research, and willingness to explore cross-disciplinary research methods.

Mission Statement

The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.

Responsibilities*

Primary Responsibilities Include

• Conduct collaborative research with the PI and other members of the Michigan PNI Lab, including:
  • Identify and generate new research ideas;
  • Conduct critical literature reviews;
  • Develop novel hypotheses and conceptual frameworks;
  • Develop new research protocols;
  • Collect data and conduct statistical analyses;
  • Prepare and revise presentations, posters, and manuscripts to be presented at academic forums and published in peer-reviewed academic journals;
• Assist the PI in preparing grant proposals;
• Assist the PI in mentoring graduate students and other lab members;
• Participate in lab meetings, departmental seminars, professional developmental workshops, and other events organized at the University of Michigan;
• Other duties as determined by the PI.
  
  

While it is expected that the fellow will be in residence in Ann Arbor throughout the duration of the appointment, occasional travel may be necessary (e.g., to domestic or international conferences, workshops, invited symposia, or panel presentations).

Required Qualifications*

The Fellow Is Expected To Have

• Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, Health Psychology, or Social Psychology, or a related field;
• Strong background in study design and quantitative research methods;
• Demonstrated initiative
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal;
• A demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment (e.g., with oncology).
  
  

Applicants are expected to have met all doctoral requirements before the start of the fellowship.

Desired Qualifications*

• Experience with advanced statistical modeling techniques (e.g., hierarchical linear modeling) and common statistical software (R, SPSS, SAS);
• Experience with ecological momentary assessment;
• Experience with laboratory-based stress research (e.g., Trier Social Stress Task);
• Familiarity with psychoneuroimmunology methods and measures (e.g., inflammatory markers, salivary cortisol);
• Familiarity with the design and analysis of longitudinal and/or intensive repeated-measures studies;
  
  

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 $62,232 - $65,000. 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.

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. This job may be removed from the posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.

Job Opening ID

270487

Working Title

Research Fellow - Michigan Psychoneuroimmunology Lab

Job Title

RESEARCH FELLOW

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

10/31/2025 - 4/01/2026

Salary

$62,232.00 - $65,000.00

Career Interest

Research Fellows