Research Fellow - Michigan Psychoneuroimmunology Lab

Postdoctoral research fellow position in the Michigan Psychoneuroimmunology Lab (PI: Dr. Annelise Madison) at the University of Michigan, Department of Psychology. Start date: Summer 2027 or Fall 2027.

About the Role

The Michigan Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) Lab investigates the dynamic interactions between psychological processes, the immune system, and physical health. The lab combines experimental psychoneuroimmunology with clinical science, using laboratory-based stress paradigms, naturalistic stress designs, ambulatory and ecological momentary assessment, biomarker analysis, and randomized intervention trials. Current projects span two complementary lines:

• Development and testing of a transdiagnostic psychological intervention for people with chronic inflammatory disease, in collaboration with clinical partners across oncology, rheumatology, and endocrinology.
• Examination of how psychological and physiological effects of stress can be buffered in healthy populations, using experimental and naturalistic stress designs to inform prevention of inflammatory and chronic disease.

The fellow will collaborate with the PI and lab members on ongoing projects and pursue independent research aligned with the lab’s mission. Some data collection will be clinical (e.g., administering psychotherapy), offering opportunities to gain research experience and hours toward licensure. Occasional travel may be required for conferences or workshops.

Responsibilities

• Conduct collaborative research with the PI and lab members, including:
  • Identifying and generating new research ideas;
  • Conducting critical literature reviews;
  • Developing novel hypotheses and conceptual frameworks;
  • Designing new research protocols;
  • Collecting data and conducting statistical analyses;
  • Preparing and revising presentations, posters, and manuscripts for academic forums and peer-reviewed journals;
  • Assisting the PI in preparing grant proposals;
  • Mentoring graduate students and other lab members;
  • Participating in lab meetings, departmental seminars, and professional development workshops.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals (a strong drive to publish is essential).

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, completed prior to the start date;
• Demonstrated interest in psychoneuroimmunology and/or behavioral medicine, with a focus on translating research to improve care for people with chronic disease;
• Strong background in study design and quantitative research methods;
• Demonstrated initiative and ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Qualifications

• Experience with advanced statistical modeling techniques (e.g., hierarchical linear modeling) and 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;
• Experience delivering or developing evidence-based psychological interventions (e.g., CBT, ACT, behavioral medicine protocols), particularly with medical populations;
• Clinical or research experience with chronic disease populations, especially inflammatory disease.

Pay

Salary range: $63,480 to $65,000. A higher salary may be offered based on equity and the selected candidate's experience.

Schedule

12-month term-limited position with the possibility of renewal. Full-time, in-residence in Ann Arbor, with occasional travel required.

Benefits

This position is benefits-eligible.