PostDoctoral Positions Available Updated May 5, 2008   Current Positions: 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 Deputy Director - Research Post Doctoral Research Associate Research Fellow in Cochlear Mechanics Postdoctoral Position in Dendritic Neurophysiology and Imaging Postdoctoral Position Postdoctoral Research in Auditory Gene Therapy 2 Postdoctoral Research Positions: Research Engineer & Research Scientist, Cochlear Implant Research Postdoc Position Studying Stem Cells and Neurodegeneration in the Inner Ear in Spain Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Human Auditory Electrophysiology         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   DEPUTY DIRECTOR - RESEARCH The Bionic Ear Institute, Melbourne Australia Posted 2/25/08 The Bionic Ear Institute is seeking to appoint a recognized leader in either Biomedical Engineering or Neuroscience. Building on our extensive knowledge and experience with the Bionic Ear, our vision is to consolidate and expand the Institute's current base in Melbourne, Australia and build a significantly larger, world-class institute that combines the disciplines of biomedicine and engineering to create bionic devices that address the medical challenges associated with other neural systems. The position of Deputy Director is a challenging opportunity to provide an outstanding contribution to the research, profile, leadership and operational activities of the Institute into the future. Successful candidates will hold the equivalent of a University level Professor (Level E) together with outstanding qualifications in Biomedical Engineering, Biomaterials or Neuroscience, with a demonstrable record in translational research. For a copy of the position description please visit www.bionicear.org/jobs Applications can be emailed directly to lpeterson@bionicear.org For further information and a confidential discussion please telephone either Professor Rob Shepherd (03)9667 7517 or Linda Peterson, Executive Officer (03)9667 7538 Applications close: 23 April 2008 Back to top   POST DOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE Western Kentucky University, Department Of Biology Posted 2/25/08 Western Kentucky University, Department of Biology, is seeking applicants for a Post-Doctoral Research Associate. The candidate would participate in a study examining gene expression during auditory hair cell regeneration in zebrafish. This NIH-funded project integrates a variety of electrophysiological, cellular, molecular and microscopic techniques to investigate genetic pathways activated during zebrafish hair cell death and regeneration. This is a 12-month grant-funded position. Continued employment is subject to availability of funds. Responsibilities: Assists in maintaining the zebrafish facility. Supervises of daily activities in the laboratory to include data acquisition and analysis and grant writing. If desired the candidate has the opportunity to participate in a pedagogical training program in which the candidate will team-teach with a mentor. Required Qualifications: Earned Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Biology or a related field. Will be expected to seek external funded grants. Preferred/Desired Qualifications: Experience with molecular techniques (PCR, immunocytochemistry, Western blot, etc.), bioinformatics, and/or bioacoustics. Experience with hearing research, acoustics, electrophysiology, fine dissection, fluorescence microscopy, and/or molecular techniques. 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 using the online application process. In addition to these documents please forward copies of transcripts. Please forward to: Human Resources Department, Western Kentucky University, Search Committee - Post Doctoral Research Associate, Wetherby Administration Building, Room G25, 1906 College Heights Blvd. #11003, Bowling Green, KY 42101-1003 or email glenda.wahl@wku.edu. Please refer to the following website to apply: http://asaweb.wku.edu/wkujobs. For further assistance call (270) 745-5934. Reference requisition number S1827. Position will remain open until filled. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply including women, minorities, persons with disabilities and disabled veterans. Western Kentucky University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Please contact Dr. Michael Smith for more information about this postdoctoral position (michael.smith1@wku.edu). Back to top   RESEARCH FELLOW IN COCHLEAR MECHANICS Southampton University Posted 1/25/08 A one-year Research Fellowship is offered in cochlear mechanics. The emphasis will be on developing a computational model of the mechanics of the cochlear partition that is physiologically plausible, and on comparing the results from this model with the direct measurements made by other groups. The post will thus involve a combination of numerical modelling and coordination with measurement groups, particularly that of Dr. N. Cooper at Keele University. A flexible multi-disciplinary approach is thus required. A combination of analytic and numerical models would be used and experience in such modelling in MATLAB is required, together with some experience of hearing or physiology research and the ability to work within a multidisciplinary team. Informal enquiries to Professor S.J. Elliott, sje@isvr.soton.ac.uk or to Dr. N.P. Cooper, n.p.cooper@keele.ac.uk Closing date: 1st March 2008-01-04 Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL POSITION IN DENDRITIC NEUROPHYSIOLOGY AND IMAGING University of Texas at Austin Posted 1/23/08 An NIH-funded postdoctoral research position is available to study synaptic integration and plasticity in the mammalian central auditory system. Our group uses somatic and dendritic patch recordings as well as calcium imaging techniques in brain slices to examine how action potential output is controlled by the interplay of synaptic receptors, voltage-gated ion channels, and dendritic morphology. We are also interested in how these interactions influence the induction of plasticity in synapses and ion channels. Preferred candidates will have a strong background in cellular neuroscience, and experience in electrophysiology, imaging, or compartmental modeling is desirable. To apply, send a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and 3 letters of reference to: Nace Golding Section of Neurobiology University of Texas at Austin 1 University Station, C0920 Austin, TX 78712 Email: golding@mail.utexas.edu Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL POSITION St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Posted 1/18/08 A postdoctoral position is available to study prestin and outer hair cell functions in cochlear amplification. We use a variety of techniques centered on transgenic, knockout, conditional knockout and knockin mouse models. Individuals are required to have ambition and good work ethics. Those with electrophysiology and/or mouse genetics background are encouraged to apply. Please email a curriculum vita, a description of research accomplishments and names of three references to: Jian Zuo, Ph.D. Associate Member Dept. of Developmental Neurobiology St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Memphis, TN 38105 Email: jian.zuo@stjude.org Tel: 901-495-3891 (Office); 901-335-8604 (Cell); 901-495-3892 & 3893 (Lab) Fax: 901-495-2270 Back to top   POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH IN AUDITORY GENE THERAPY University of Montana and The Montana Neuroscience Institute Posted 1/11/08 A postdoctoral position is available to study gene therapy based applications to promote hair cell regeneration within the cochlea. Research will involve the generation and surgical delivery of recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors. Experience with molecular biology as well as immunohistochemical and physiological (ABR/DPOAE) analysis helpful. Interested applicants should email a curriculum vita, a description of research accomplishments and names of three references to: David Poulsen, PhD (david.poulsen@umontana.edu). Back to top   2 POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH POSITIONS: RESEARCH ENGINEER & RESEARCH SCIENTIST, COCHLEAR IMPLANT RESEARCH The Bionic Ear Institute, Melbourne, Australia Posted 1/10/08 The Bionic Ear Institute, an independent, not-for-profit, biomedical research organization, is a major centre for Cochlear Implant Research in Australia. The Institute was established to undertake vital research to assist in the ongoing development of devices that would allow deaf people to communicate and today our researchers are world leaders in innovative biomedical research. Our work, which is undertaken with a range of key collaborative partners contributes to improved hearing for more than 100,000 severely and profoundly deaf children and adults world wide. Building on our extensive knowledge and experience with the Bionic Ear, the Institute has recently expanded its research by exploring how medical bionics can be applied to investigate and solve problems associated with other neural systems. The Institute has two challenging and exciting opportunities available for an experienced Research Engineer and Research Scientist. Music & Voice Perception Program The aim of this challenging research project is to determine the nature of the frequency and time information that is required to adequately code and perceive music and voice-pitch information. The aim is to provide cochlear implant users with enhanced electrical stimulation that provides them with better perception of music and voice-pitch. Your role will be to assist in developing computer models that accurately account for the mechanical and neural response of the ear to sound, to develop models to compare pitch perception data against existing cochlear implant systems, to develop electrical stimulation algorithms based upon these models and assist with the translation of the resulting electrical stimulation algorithms into the cochlear implant hardware and its audiological testing with cochlear implantees. Applicants will require a PhD in Mathematics, Engineering or equivalent and have the ability to work independently on research projects involving the building, implementation and analysis of neural models utilising MATLAB or C++. Experience with DSP and/or patient testing is desirable. Behavioural Neuroscience The Bionic Ear Institute has been awarded a U.S. National Institute of Health contract to study "The Effects of Intracochlear Electrical Stimulation on Neural Survival and Connectivity". The project has developed techniques for chronic electrical stimulation and drug administration to the cochlea for support neural survival and function in order to improve the quality of perception from a cochlear implant. The Institute now wishes to appoint a Behavioural Neuroscientist who will be responsible for developing and refining behavioural testing procedures to examine discrimination and identification of spatial and temporal features of cochlear electrical stimulation. Applicants will require a PhD in Neuroscience and previous experience in behavioural and/or electrophysiological research. The successful applicant will work in a highly motivated team. Successful applicants for these positions will need to demonstrate a quality research record of performing independent research in a collaborative environment, together with a high level of computer literacy, excellent communication skills, enthusiasm, passion and drive. For position descriptions and details on how to apply, please visit www.bionicear.org/jobs Applications close 29 February 2008. Back to top   POSTDOC POSITION STUDYING STEM CELLS AND NEURODEGENERATION IN THE INNER EAR IN SPAIN Institute for Biology and Molecular Genetics (IBGM) in Valladolid Posted 12/12/07 We are seeking for a postdoctoral and a predoctoral fellow to join our laboratory at the Institute for Biology and Molecular Genetics (IBGM) in Valladolid. The position is initially for one year and may be renewed up to a duration of 3 years in total. The research projects are focussed on the study or generation of inner ear cells from stem/precursor cells in vitro and in vivo, identification of genes regulated during ageing or inner ear damage and generation and characterization of mouse models lacking neurotrophic factors in the inner ear. Interested individuals from EC member states only (studies/PhD must have been performed/obtained/homologated in the EC) please contact: Dr. Thomas Schimmang IBGM, CSIC-University of Valladolid C/Sanz y Forés s/n 47003 Valladolid, Spain schimman@ibgm.uva.es http://www.ibgm.med.uva.es/schimmang/index.htm Back to top   POST-DOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP IN HUMAN AUDITORY ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY University of Connecticut Posted 11/12/07 The Laboratory for Speech Physiology and Motor Control (Max Lab) and the Neuroaudiology Laboratory (Musiek Lab) in the Department of Communication Sciences at the University of Connecticut are jointly seeking applications for a postdoctoral position to study auditory processing and neural maturation in 3- to 7-year-old children who stutter. The ongoing studies involve short-, middle-, and long-latency auditory evoked potentials to examine the central auditory pathway from brain stem to cortex. Opportunities are available in the Max Lab to also gain experience with various experimental techniques and methodologies for studying mechanisms of sensorimotor control in normal speech production and in individuals who stutter (for more information, see http://www.cdis.uconn.edu/lab/lspmc). Review of applications will begin immediately and the search will be closed when a suitable candidate is identified. Candidates with a Ph.D. degree in cognitive/behavioral neuroscience, communication disorders (speech-language pathology or audiology), experimental psychology, and related fields, are encouraged to apply. Requirements include prior research experience with young children as well as a strong interest in conducting and publishing research in the area of stuttering. Training in recording and analyzing auditory evoked potentials can be provided, as needed. Applicants are asked to submit (a) a cover letter describing their research experiences, interests, and goals, (b) a curriculum vitae, (c) the names and contact information of three individuals who can serve as references, and (d) reprints of relevant journal publications. For more information, please contact Ludo Max, Ph.D. (e-mail: ludo.max@uconn.edu; phone: 860.486.4078). Applications can be submitted to the same e-mail address, or by mail to Ludo Max, Ph.D., University of Connecticut, Department of Communication Sciences, 850 Bolton Road, Unit 1085, Storrs, CT 06269-1085. 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