Postdoctoral Research Scholar
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. The postdoctoral scholar is within five years from receipt of the doctoral degree. 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 2026, but remains flexible for applicants with desired qualifications. Please see balmerlab.com
Salary Range: $62,232 - $75,564
About the School of Life Sciences
SOLS is embedded within the larger community at ASU, a dynamic, progressive university dedicated to interdisciplinary collaborations, rethinking university education, and integrating excellence in research and teaching. The university has been ranked #1 for innovation by the US News & World Report for 10 years in a row. We invite you to learn more about SOLS by visiting sols.asu.edu.
SOLS is a broad, interdisciplinary community of undergraduates, MS, and PhD students, staff, and faculty members who are committed to transforming science, research, and education. We strive to make learning more accessible, inclusive, and impactful through innovations in teaching and connections to nationally recognized research and education programs.
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 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.
Essential Functions
- Design and conduct independent and collaborative research experiments in auditory neuroscience and synaptic physiology.
- Utilize neurophysiological research techniques such as viral tracing, optogenetics, electrophysiology, and related laboratory methods.
- Analyze, interpret, and manage experimental data using appropriate statistical and scientific software tools.
- Maintain accurate laboratory records and ensure compliance with institutional and research safety protocols.
- Prepare grant applications, manuscripts, presentations, and other scholarly materials.
- Present research findings at laboratory meetings, scientific conferences, and professional seminars.
- Collaborate effectively with other lab members and mentor junior laboratory members in experimental techniques and research activities.
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
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
Application Instructions
The application deadline is June 27, 2026. 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 preapares them for the position.
- Curriculm vitae or resume
- Contact information (name, email, and phone) for three professional references
Contact
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
A background check is required for employment. ASU is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. ASU’s full nondiscrimination statement (ACD 401) is located on the ASU website at asu.edu/aad/manuals/acd/acd401.html and asu.edu/titleIX.
Clery Act Statement
In compliance with federal law, ASU prepares an annual report on campus security and fire safety programs and resources. ASU’s Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available online at https://www.asu.edu/police/PDFs/ASU-Clery-Report.pdf. You may request a hard copy of the report by contacting the ASU Police Department at 480-965-3456.