Applicants are invited for a postdoctoral research scholar to work on genetic hearing loss in the Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories (MORL) at the University of Iowa.  Hearing research in the MORL is broadly focused on Mendelian forms of genetic hearing loss (autosomal recessive and dominant non-syndromic hearing loss), studying phenotype-genotype relationships, novel gene discovery, gene therapy for hearing loss, and the contribution of genetics to age-related hearing loss. 

The MORL has a rich history of research in genetic hearing loss, with significant discoveries in many areas and continuous funding from the NIH/NIDCD since 1991. We have tested over 10,000 using OtoSCOPE, a comprehensive genetic testing panel for hearing loss, and have pioneered the use of RNAi as a gene therapy option for genetic deafness.  The lab work environment is outstanding and has state-of-the-art wet lab equipment including a MiSeq and NextSeq, an audiobooth for animal testing, an operatory with surgical microscopy, and confocal microscopy.  We collaborate with a large number of scientists around the world.

Lab website: https://morl.lab.uiowa.edu/

Key areas of responsibilities for the post-doctoral fellow include but are not limited to proactively conducting research activities/experiments, developing new hypothesis, collecting, analyzing and summarizing data, troubleshooting experiments, preparing reports, maintaining logbooks, writing manuscripts/publications/grant proposals, administrative and project management, facilities and equipment management, supervision/staffing, and participating in the training of other lab personnel. The successful candidate will be self-motivated and work closely with the principal investigators, as well as other fellows, students, technicians, and clinicians, in a highly collaborative environment integrating clinical and basic science. Independent and creative ideas and approaches are highly encouraged.

We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds. Candidates must have completed a PhD in audiology/hearing science. 

Candidates must have completed a PhD in audiology/hearing science. 

Ideal candidates will have experience in a wide range of wet-lab and computational experience including but not limited to next-generation sequencing and data analysis, plasmid and cell culture techniques, DNA/RNA work, single-cell studies, cochlear microdissection and immunostaining, animal husbandry, microsurgery and ABR/DPOAE testing in mice. Applicants will be expected to play a lead role in current research projects but will also have the opportunity to develop independent research projects related to their own interests.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Funding is available for a four-year term starting Fall 2023.

Start date is flexible. Salary will be based on the NIH guidelines for postdoctoral trainees. If you are interested in this position, please contact Lydia Messer at Lydia-Messer@uiowa.edu with a brief description of your research experience and interests, a CV, and contact information of three professional references.