PostDoctoral Positions Available Updated August 28, 2008   Current Positions: Postdoctoral Position in Cochlear Mechanics/Physiology Available Postdoctoral Positions in Inner Ear Development Postdoctoral Position at Karolinska Institutet - In Vivo Progenitor and Stem Cell Implantation Into the Auditory Nervous System for a Cochlear Implant Postdoctoral Research Position Postdoctoral Fellowships Seeking Post-doctoral Fellow with Audiology Experience Postdoctoral Fellowship: Physiology Of Ca2+ Signaling In Auditory Hair Cells Development and Plasticity of Auditory Brainstem Circuits Postdoctoral Positions in Inner Ear Development and Regeneration Postdoctoral Position Bilateral Cochlear Implant Research Postdoctoral Position Postdoctoral Fellows in Inner Ear Development Postdoctoral Fellowship in Synaptic Physiology Postdoctoral Fellow in Neurobiology Research Associate/Senior Research Associate Postdoctoral Position in Molecular Hair Cell Physiology Postdoctoral Researcher in Mathematical Modelling of Mammalian Hearing Postdoctoral Research Associate Postdoctoral Fellowship in Auditory Synaptic Transmission Postdoctoral Researcher or Research Associate       POSTDOCTORAL POSITION IN COCHLEAR MECHANICS/PHYSIOLOGY AVAILABLE The Oregon Hearing Research Center’s Cochlear Mechanics/Physiology Laboratory Posted 8/28/08 The Oregon Hearing Research Center’s Cochlear Mechanics/Physiology Laboratory is seeking a qualified individual for postdoctoral work in cochlear mechanics. Studies concerning the mechanical, electrical and cellular mechanics of cochlear amplification are being conducted. The qualified individual should have a background in cochlear studies (modeling or physiology). Experience with small animal physiological experiments is highly desirable. Other desirable but not essential qualifications are engineering education, programming skills (MatLab), acoustics knowledge and mathematical modeling. The multi-year position has support at the appropriate NIH salary level based on experience. Please contact Alfred Nuttall, PhD and send a CV and names of references. nuttall@ohsu.edu Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS IN INNER EAR DEVELOPMENT The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine; Dept. of Otolaryngology Posted 7/22/08 Postdoctoral positions are available in the laboratory of Dr. Michael Deans to study the development of the auditory and vestibular epithelia of the inner ear. This is a new research lab that will be opening at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in September of 2008. The lab specializes in the creation and analysis of transgenic and knockout mice and immediate opportunities to develop novel lines are available. Our goal is to identify mechanisms underlying the development of specialized cellular architectures within the inner ear. This will include but is not limited to studies of hair cell Planar Cell Polarity (PCP), stereocilia bundle morphogenesis, and the development of supporting cells in the Organ of Corti. Enquiries should be addressed to Michael Deans (mdeans4@jhmi.edu). Please include a current CV and the names of three references. Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL POSITION AT KAROLINSKA INSTITUTET - IN VIVO PROGENITOR AND STEM CELL IMPLANTATION INTO THE AUDITORY NERVOUS SYSTEM FOR A COCHLEAR IMPLANT Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden Posted 7/7/08 A position in a 25 people interdisciplinary inner ear research laboratory containing highly expertise in organotypic cell cultures, molecular biology, advanced photomicroscopy, physiological techniques etc. Our group is focusing on replacement strategies for the injured auditory nerve. The present method is to implant various types of progenitor and/or stem cells into the auditory nerve using sophisticated stereo tactic surgical techniques. Further, human embryonic neurons are used for implantation with or without addition of neurotrophic factors. The cells and factors used for implantation have been screened from our in vitro experiments performed by your future colleague postdocs and students. The successful outcome would be a biological implant that can be stimulated on by a cochlear implant. The most competitive national and international groups are well connected to this project. Several publications were awarded by cover pages. Applicants should be fluent in English and have microsurgical skills, graduate training in auditory science, neuroscience or related fields with a PhD-degree including good knowledge in molecular biology. CVs and details of three references should be received by August 15th. Petri Olivius, MD Associate Professor ENT-department Karolinska University hospital, Solna S-171 76 Stockholm Sweden email: petri.olivius@ki.se http://www.ki.se/cfh/ Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH POSITION Indiana University School of Medicine Posted 6/30/08 Department of Otolaryngology at Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis has a postdoctoral research position available for a qualified PhD interested in research concerning the use of sensory aids (cochlear implants and hearing aids) by infants and children with hearing impairment. The current research project, funded by the NIH, is aimed at understanding the development of auditory attention to speech by hearing-impaired infants and children and to assess how the segmental and prosodic characteristics of maternal speech input are affected by infants’ hearing status. A doctoral degree is required in cognitive science, psychology, or speech and hearing science with research interests in language acquisition and the role of infant-directed speech. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Interested applicants are encouraged to send a cover letter, c.v., a summary of research interests, and two letters of reference. Send all correspondence and materials to: Tonya R. Bergeson, Ph.D., Department of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, 699 West Drive RR044, Indianapolis, IN 46202 or via email to tbergeso@indiana.edu. (Indiana University is an EEO/AA employer, M/F/D.) Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIPS Boys Town National Research Hospital, Omaha, NE Posted 6/26/08 Boys Town National Research Hospital has NIH-funded postdoctoral fellowships available for 1-3 year intervals. Opportunities exist for research training in the following areas: Audiology and Hearing Aids (Pat Stelmachowicz, Dawna Lewis, Kanae Nishi), Auditory Physiology (Edward Walsh, JoAnn McGee), Clinical Cochlear Physiology/Objective Testing (Michael Gorga), Cochlear Implants (Michelle Hughes), Cochlear Modeling/Communication Engineering (Stephen Neely), Genetics of Communication Disorders (William Kimberling, Dominic Cosgrove,), Language Development (Mary Pat Moeller), Neurochemistry (Barbara Morley), Perceptual Development (Nicholas Smith), Physical Acoustics/Middle-Ear Function/Cochlear Function (Douglas Keefe), Psychoacoustics (Walt Jesteadt, Donna Neff), and Vestibular Neurogenetics (Yesha Lundberg). Opportunities exist for collaborative experiences, in which Fellows work in more than one laboratory. Training programs that combine basic and applied research experiences also are available. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents. For additional information, contact Walt Jesteadt, Ph.D., Director of Research, BTNRH, 555 North 30th Street, Omaha, NE 68131, (402) 498-6704, jesteadt@boystown.org. For additional information about research programs at BTNRH, please visit our website (www.boystownhospital.org). Back to top   SEEKING POST-DOCTORAL FELLOW WITH AUDIOLOGY EXPERIENCE Medical University of South Carolina Posted 6/16/08 Post-doctoral fellowship available in a basic research laboratory for someone with an Audiology background. Our lab is a basic neuroscience laboratory studying hearing loss and hair cell death using a mouse model system. We are currently studying the mechanism(s) of aminoglycoside- and cisplatin-induced hair cell death as well as the mechanism(s) underlying heat shock protein (HSP)-induced protection against ototoxic drug-induced hair cell death. We are beginning a project that will involve exposing mice to noise and then testing their hearing using ABR and OAE techniques. This is a great opportunity for someone with an Audiology background who would like to do research. For more information on our lab and our research, or to apply for this position online, visit http://www.musc.edu/pathology/cvs/cunningham.htm Applications may also be emailed to cunninll@musc.edu. We are located at the Medical University of South Carolina in beautiful Charleston, SC. Salary will be competitive and commensurate with experience. Candidate must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP: PHYSIOLOGY OF CA2+ SIGNALING IN AUDITORY HAIR CELLS Emory University, Dept. of Pharmacology Posted 6/10/08 A postdoctoral position is available to study the molecular regulation of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels in mouse inner hair cells. The project investigates the role of calmodulin-like proteins and their role in developmental regulation of Ca2+ channels at the inner hair cell synapse (Cui et al., 2007, J. Physiol. 585: 791-803), using multiple approaches, including immunocytochemistry, patch-clamp electrophysiology, and molecular biology (siRNA, generation of genetically modified mice). Training in patch-clamp electrophysiology or hair cell biology is required. Applicants should send a curriculum vitae and contact information for 2 references via e-mail to Amy Lee (alee@pharm.emory.edu) or via post to: Amy Lee, PhD Dept. of Pharmacology Emory University 1510 Clifton Rd Atlanta, GA 30322 Back to top   DEVELOPMENT AND PLASTICITY OF AUDITORY BRAINSTEM CIRCUITS University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Posted 6/5/08 A postdoctoral position is available to study the development and plasticity of auditory brainstem circuits. Our laboratory applies a variety of physiological techniques such as whole-cell patch clamp recordings, functional mapping with caged glutamate, and 2-photon calcium imaging to normal and genetically modified mice (Pubmed). Interested applicants with previous physiological or imaging experience should contact Karl Kandler (kkarl@pitt.edu) Karl Kandler, PhD Departments of Otolaryngology and Neurobiology University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS IN INNER EAR DEVELOPMENT AND REGENERATION Baylor College of Medicine Posted 5/22/08 Postdoctoral positions are available in the laboratory of Dr. Andy Groves to study the development and regeneration of the inner ear. Our lab is moving to Baylor College of Medicine in August 2008 and will occupy newly renovated space in the Departments of Neuroscience and Molecular and Human Genetics. Projects include understanding the molecular basis of inner ear induction in the early mouse and chick embryo, the origins of evolutionary novelty in the vertebrate ear, characterizing genes responsible for morphogenesis and development of neural and sensory cells in the ear, and developing approaches to regenerating sensory and secretory cells following damage or degeneration in the inner ear. Techniques in the lab include manipulation of mouse and chick embryos, creation of transgenic and knockout mice, microarray profiling and imaging of cell and organ cultures with transgenic reporters. Enquiries should be addressed to Andy Groves (akgroves@bcm.edu). Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL POSITION Rosalind Franklin University Posted 5/20/08 A postdoctoral position is available to investigate the cellular mechanisms and the role of synaptic plasticity in the auditory system. We combine brain slice electrophysiology with optical techniques such as two-photon imaging and UV uncaging to study transmission and plasticity of auditory synapses. Applicants with previous experience with in vivo recordings from auditory nuclei are encouraged to apply. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vita, and the names and contact information of three references to Thanos Tzounopoulos via email (athanasios.tzounopoulos@rosalindfranklin.edu). Review of applications will begin immediately. Back to top   BILATERAL COCHLEAR IMPLANT RESEARCH University of Wisconsin - Waisman Center Posted 5/16/08 An NIH-funded position for a postdoctoral researcher or research associate is available in the Binaural Hearing and Speech Lab at the University of Wisconsin - Waisman Center, directed by Ruth Litovsky. Our research program focuses on psychophysical studies in adults and children who use bilateral cochlear implants; development of spatial hearing abilities in children with normal hearing; directional hearing in adults with normal hearing. We are also conducting behavioral studies in cats who receive bilateral cochlear implants, in collaboration with Tom Yin in the department of Physiology. This position offers the opportunity to make a substantial intellectual contribution to this developing area of research. This is a 24-month grant-funded position. Continued employment is subject to availability of additional funds. Individuals with a Ph.D. in Communicative Disorders, Neuroscience, Psychology or a related field are encouraged to apply. Individuals will be expected to work with the mentor to write an NIH postdoc grant application. Preferred qualifications include: Experience with psychophysics, behavioral testing of children and/or adults. Experience with hearing research, acoustics, clinical audiology. Persons with a strong background in DSP and mastery of Matlab and/or C++ are encouraged to apply. Applications for employment will be accepted electronically only. Interested candidates must submit: a current curriculum vita and cover letter describing qualifications, research, experience and career goals and names, addresses and daytime phone numbers of three professional references. In addition to these documents please forward copies of transcripts. To inquire further, please contact: Ruth Litovsky, Ph.D. University of Wisconsin Waisman Center Email: Litovsky@waisman.wisc.edu Tel: 608-262-7483 or 262-5045 The position will remain open until filled. Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL POSITION Northwestern University Posted 4/29/08 Northwestern University, Department of Otolaryngology, has a postdoctoral position available to study the representation of the optically stimulated cochlea in the inferior colliculus. The candidate will be expected to design and conduct experiments, analyze data, prepare manuscripts for publication, and participate in national level conferences. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vita, and the names and contact information of three references to Prof. Claus-Peter Richter via email (cri529@northwestern.edu). Review of applications will begin immediately. Necessary Qualifications: Ph.D. in neuroscience, physiology, biomedical engineering, or related fields. The successful applicant must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills and work well in a team setting. Desired qualifications: Experience with multi electrode recording techniques and single unit recordings. Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWS IN INNER EAR DEVELOPMENT Emory University Posted 4/28/08 Postdoctoral positions are available to investigate the morphogenesis of the inner ear sensory organs. In particular, we use a combinatory approach of cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, structural biology, and genetics to address fundamental issues in the patterning of inner ear sensory epithelia and the formation of polarized structure of stereociliary bundles (Wang et al., 2005, Nature Genetics; Qian et al., 2007, Developmental Biology; Jones et al., 2008, Nature Genetics). Candidates with background of cell biology, EM, biochemistry, genetics, or inner ear biology are encouraged to apply. Emory University hosts academically diverse research labs and provides an excellent environment for collegial collaborations for career development. The city of Atlanta boosts quality of living and diverse culture exposure. Interested candidates are encouraged to send inquiries or a curriculum vitae and contact information for three references to Dr. Ping Chen (ping.chen@emory.edu). Ping Chen, PhD Department of Cell Biology Emory University 615 Michael Street Atlanta, GA 30322 Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP IN SYNAPTIC PHYSIOLOGY NIDCD/NIH Posted 4/4/08 A postdoctoral position is available to investigate cellular and biophysical mechanisms of synaptic plasticity in the auditory system. Current projects focus on synaptic signaling within the circuitry of the mammalian cochlear nucleus and other regions of the auditory brainstem. We combine brain slice electrophysiology (patch clamp) with a variety of optical techniques such as two-photon imaging, CCD imaging, and UV uncaging to study transmission and plasticity of auditory synapses. Interested applicants should submit a CV and the names of three references to: Stephan Brenowitz, Ph.D. Section on Synaptic Transmission, NIDCD/NIH Building 50, Room 4152, 50 South Drive, MSC 8027 Bethesda, MD 20892 Email: brenowitzs@nidcd.nih.gov Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW IN NEUROBIOLOGY The Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and Pharmacy Posted 4/3/08 The Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and Pharmacy invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in Neurobiology. This full-time position is available immediately to study synaptic transmission and neural circuits in the auditory system. Our laboratory is interested in how inputs to the inferior colliculus interact with intrinsic membrane properties and local recurrent circuits to process acoustic information. We use several approaches to address this issue including whole-cell patch clamp recordings and voltage-sensitive dyes in brain slices and recordings in vivo in awake mice. Experience with whole-cell patch clamp recording techniques and a keen interest in synaptic physiology is desirable. The candidate will have the opportunity to interact with the other members of the Department of Neurobiology, whose focus is auditory processing at both the cellular and systems levels. Review of resumes will begin immediately and continue until filled. All applicants must apply on-line at http://www.neoucom.edu/jobs.php. Please include a cover letter addressed to Dr. Shobhana Sivaramakrishnan, a curriculum vitae and names of three references. Informal questions regarding this position can be addressed to Dr. Sivaramakrishnan at ssivaram@neoucom.edu. The College's dedication to excellence is complemented by its profound commitment to building and sustaining a culturally diverse academic community. Individuals form historically underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. NEOUCOM is an equal opportunity educator and employer. Back to top   RESEARCH ASSOCIATE/SENIOR RESEARCH ASSOCIATE University of Miami Posted 3/25/08 A Research Associate/Senior Research Associate position is available to identify genes causing hearing loss and to perform function analysis on the identified genes. The candidate should have sound knowledge of molecular biology techniques and working knowledge of cell biology (cell culture, transfection, immunoblotting, etc). The successful candidates should have a Ph.D in molecular biology, genetics or biochemistry and should have a strong background in experiences with gene identification and gene function study. Candidates will be highly motivated and be required to communicate the results of their research clearly and effectively both orally and in writing. Interested applicants should send a curriculum vitae and a list of three references to Dr. Xue Zhong Liu, Department of Otolaryngology (D-48), University of Miami, P.O. Box 016960, Miami, FL 33101. (xliu@med.miami.edu). Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL POSITION IN MOLECULAR HAIR CELL PHYSIOLOGY Institute of Physiology, University of Marburg, Germany Posted 3/18/08 The neurophysiology lab at the Institute of Physiology in Marburg focuses on molecular mechanisms in cochlear sensory hair cells, in particular on the function of prestin, the motor protein of outer hair cells and on molecular properties of potassium channels. (Oliver et al., 2001, Science 292: 2340-3; Schaechinger & Oliver 2007, PNAS 104: 7693-8). The current project is aimed at understanding the molecular mechanisms that underlie the generation of membrane motility by prestin. We are also interested in how this relates to the mechanisms of anion transport through the related SLC26 anion transporters. We search for a candidate with enthusiasm for the development of novel experimental strategies and a strong background in electrophysiology and/or fluorescence microscopy. Please address applications or informal inquiries to: Prof. Dr. Dominik Oliver Institute for Physiology und Pathophysiology Philipps-Universität Marburg Deutschhausstraße 2, D-35037 Marburg, Germany Tel: ++49-6421-2866444 Fax: ++49-6421-2862306 E-mail: oliverd@staff.uni-marburg.de Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER IN MATHEMATICAL MODELLING OF MAMMALIAN HEARING Applied Nonlinear Mathematics Group, University of Bristol Posted 3/17/08 Based within the Applied Nonlinear Mathematics group within the Department of Engineering Mathematics, you will work on theoretical aspects of a BBSRC-funded project entitled \u201cMathematical modelling of the active hearing process in the mammalian inner ear\u201d. The project aims to combine state of the art in-vivo and in-vitro measurements on the function of outer hair cells (OHCs) and on the dynamic response of the basilar membrane (BM), and develop models that accurately capture: (i) electro-mechanical feedback, (ii) geometric feedforward in the interaction between the OHCs and the BM, (iii) temporal delay, and (iv) coupling between hair bundles and the reticular lamina. Ultimately we want to answer the question of which (combination) of these effects explains the mechanism by which the active process of cochlear amplification occurs. The award also funds an extensive experimental programme, to be carried out by Dr Helen Kennedy (Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Bristol) and Dr Nigel Cooper (Auditory Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Keele University), and the position will involve direct collaboration with both groups, using a 'predictive biology' approach, where mathematical models suggest experiments and vice versa. Informal enquiries about the project are very welcome and should be addressed to Dr Martin Homer (martin.homer@bristol.ac.uk). The closing date for applications is 9am Monday 31 March 2008. Further details, including the application procedure, are available online at http://www.bris.ac.uk/boris/jobs/ads?ID=71784 Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE East Carolina University Posted 3/4/08 Vacancy # 000155 East Carolina University, College of Allied Health Sciences Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders seeks a Research Associate (Post Doctoral Fellow) for NIH funded research in the genetic basis of gravity receptor dysfunction. The selected candidate will contribute to morphological investigations of the inner ear in mouse models with a variety of genetic mutations. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications. Minimum Qualifications: Applicants should have a PhD degree from an appropriately accredited institution; excellent written and verbal communication skills; experience in a variety of histology and microscopy techniques required; knowledge base in genetics and molecular biology desired. For further information, please contact Sherri Jones jonessh@ecu.edu. Screening will begin March 8, 2008, and continue until the position is filled. Candidates should submit a candidate profile, letter of interest describing research experience, curriculum vita, and contact information for three references to: East Carolina University Department of Human Resources at www.jobs.ecu.edu Candidates invited to interviews will be asked to provide three representative publications. Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer View this job posting at https://ecu.peopleadmin.com/applicants/Central?quickFind=57695. Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP IN AUDITORY SYNAPTIC TRANSMISSION INSERM Posted 3/4/08 An INSERM funded postdoctoral position is available to investigate synaptic neurotransmission in the mammalian auditory system. The current project will focus on the role of otoferlin in calcium-evoked neurotransmitter release at the inner hair cell ribbon synapse. A background in patch clamp electrophysiology is required. Interested applicants should submit a CV and the names of three references to: Didier DULON Directeur de Recherche l'INSERM Unit INSERM 587 - University of Bordeaux2 Hopital Pellegrin Bat PQR entre 3 33076 Bordeaux, FRANCE dulon@bordeaux.inserm.fr Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER OR RESEARCH ASSOCIATE Indiana University Bloomington Posted 3/4/08 An NIH-funded position for a postdoctoral researcher or research associate is available to study serotonergic neuromodulation of auditory processing in the IC. Our research group uses the techniques of extracellular recording in vivo, iontophoretic drug application, anatomical analysis, and in vivo voltammetry to assess the roles of serotonin and its receptors on auditory circuitry, and to measure how serotonin levels fluctuate in behaving animals. The research environment at Indiana University Bloomington is enhanced by a large and diverse neuroscience group and core facilities. This position offers the opportunity to make a substantial intellectual contribution to this developing area of research. To inquire further, please contact Laura Hurley: lhurley@indiana.edu, 812.856.1991. Back to top         Thank you for visiting the Association for Research in Otolaryngology ARO Office: 19 Mantua Rd. Mt. Royal, NJ 08061 USA headquarters@aro.org