Postdoctoral Research Scholar: Synaptic and Circuit Mechanism in the Auditory System
Arizona State University
Arizona State University: Office of the University Provost Tempe: The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences: School of Life Sciences Administration and Faculty
Location
Open Date
Jun 25, 2025
Description
A grant funded, full-time, regular fiscal appointment for a Postdoctoral Research Scholar is available in the Balmer Lab in the School of Life Sciences at Arizona State University to study the neurophysiological mechanisms of hearing. We are looking for highly motivated individuals interested in auditory neuroscience and synaptic physiology. We investigate neurophysiological mechanisms on multiple levels of analysis and utilize in vitro and in vivo electrophysiology, viral tracing and optogenetics. We are particularly interested in candidates with experience using whole-cell patch clamp recording in acute brain slices and a strong record of publications. Responsibilities will include performing experiments, data analysis, manuscript preparation and collaborating effectively with members of the lab. Anticipated start date is Fall 2025, but remains flexible for applicants with desired qualifications. Please see balmerlab.com
Essential Functions of the Position: Acute brain slice electrophysiology, data analysis, manuscript preparation, collaborating with other lab members on research projects.
Salary Range: $62,232- $75,564 annually, DOE; benefits-eligible.
Continuation is contingent on future grant funding. This position is expected to run for at least two consecutive years. The second-year renewal is contingent upon satisfactory progress and contribution to the collective program.
About the School of Life Sciences
The School of Life Sciences has provided a vital hub for creative excellence at Arizona State University, with a community of more than 670 faculty, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and staff, and research that ranges from studies on biodiesel and biohydrogen to vaccine development and the conservation of desert tortoises. As ASU’s first academic unit to fully reflect President Michael Crow’s integrated, interdisciplinary vision for the New American University, the School of Life Sciences offers active and evolving platforms for collaborative, cutting-edge research and faculty whose discovery is freed from traditional institutional boundaries. To learn more about The School of Life Sciences, please visit https://sols.asu.edu/.
About the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is the academic heart of Arizona State University, committed to improving communities on a local, national and global scale. We support the professional development and growth of our faculty and staff in their cutting-edge research to advance these aims. Within The College, our faculty engage with a large curious student body, guiding them as they grow into socially aware, critical thinkers and writers able to succeed in a wide range of careers and to address the challenges of the twenty-first century. Advancing the success of our students remains our top priority. To learn more about The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, please visit https://thecollege.asu.edu.
About Arizona State University
ASU exemplifies a new prototype for the American public research university. As articulated in the ASU Charter, ASU is a comprehensive public research university, measured not by whom it excludes, but by whom it includes and how they succeed; advancing research and discovery of public value; and assuming fundamental responsibility for the economic, social, cultural and overall health of the communities it serves.
Qualifications
Required qualifications:
- A PhD (or terminal degree) in a relevant field such as neuroscience or biology, by the time of appointment
- Strong record of scholarly achievement
- Capacity to work effectively in a research laboratory with mice
- Excellent communication skills, technical abilities and be independent, curious and motivated
Desired qualifications:
- Previous experience with in vitro brain slice electrophysiology
- Previous experience with in vivo electrophysiology
- Previous experience with in viral tracing and anatomical analysis
- Previous experience with computational modeling
- Demonstrated commitment to working with faculty, staff, students and communities to advance the ASU Charter
Application Instructions
Application Instructions:
The application deadline is August 8, 2025. Applications will continue to be accepted on a rolling basis for a reserve pool. Applications in the reserve pool may then be reviewed in the order in which they were received until the position is filled. Candidates will be asked to create or use an existing Interfolio Dossier to submit the following application materials:
- Cover letter describing research interests and career goals. Applicants should summarize experience and explain how it prepares them for the position.
- Curriculum vitae or resume.
- Contact information (name, email and phone) for three professional references.
Contact: If you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact Timothy Balmer at Timothy.Balmer@asu.edu