Postdoc position open

Post-doctoral position in central auditory function in cochlear implant users

Applications are invited for a full-time Postdoctoral Research Scholar to work in the world class research environment of the Cochlear Implant Research Center at the University of Iowa. The Postdoctoral Scholar will contribute to projects that examine cortical networks / functions and their longitudinal change after hearing interventions (with both Cochlear Implants and Hearing Aids) using source localized EEG, MRI and eye-tracking.

This position is part of a larger NIDCD funded P50 project that examines the role of peripheral processing, cortical (re)organization, and higher-order language processing on audiological and real-world outcomes of individuals with hearing impairment. The successful candidate will work across two subprojects (central auditory integration, and cognitive dynamics of language processing), focusing on investigating both auditory/cognitive bases of speech in noise perception as well as higher level language processing.  The project leaders are Drs. Tim Griffiths (Newcastle University) and Bob McMurray (University of Iowa). Dr. Inyong Choi will provide on-site training and supervision at the University of Iowa.

This position will provide a unique opportunity to collect high-density EEG, pupillometry, and eye-tracking (Visual World Paradigm) data from a large cohort of hearing-impaired listeners including adult cochlear implant users, hearing aid users, and individuals using unique hearing preservation cochlear implants that use electric and acoustic hearing. Over the last 30 years, the Iowa Cochlear Research Center has built an efficient infrastructure for recruiting and scheduling subjects that allows testing a large number of hearing impaired participants with minimal administrative burden for researchers. The candidate will be involved in all stages of the research projects.  Specifically, he/she will be involved in designing experiments, supervising research assistants for data collection, analyzing data, preparing reports, and disseminating the results in high-quality publications and at conferences.

Candidates are expected to have a PhD in neuroscience, audiology, psychology, cognitive science, biomedical/electrical engineering, or a related field. Ideal candidates will have strong research interests in human neuroscience and translational hearing science. Experience with signal processing of EEG and analyzing structural MRI data is desirable. Previous experience with hearing impaired populations is preferred but not required. Demonstrated skills of positive interactions with research subjects, project management, and independent work are also preferred. 

Salary will be based on NIH guidelines. If you are interested in this position, please contact Dr. Inyong Choi (inyong-choi@uiowa.edu) with a brief description of your research experience and interests, a CV, and contact information of two references. Application review will begin August 1st, 2020.