Postdoctoral Research Associate - Otolaryngology

Position Summary

The Kim Lab at Washington University in St. Louis is actively seeking passionate and talented postdoctoral researchers to contribute to groundbreaking research in the auditory field.

In vivo multicellular imaging of peripheral cells has enabled the mapping of individual and population-level neuronal responses for sight, smell, taste, and touch, providing direct insight into sensory encoding. However, obtaining this level of information in the auditory system has proven technically challenging due to the deep location, mechanosensitivity, and fluid-filled, bone-encased structure of the auditory periphery, the cochlea. I overcame this limitation by developing a method that enables real-time visualization of multiple cochlear cells in hearing animals (Kim and Ricci, Nature Protocol, 2023; Kim and Ricci, PNAS, 2022; PNAS Cozzarelli Prize, 2022). 

Using this method combined with in vivo two-photon imaging, the Kim Lab's research is focused on: 

• Characterizing the properties of sound coding and processing in the cochlea and along the auditory pathway.
• Identifying the transport mechanisms of ototoxic drugs (ex, cisplatin) into the cochlea and developing pathway blockers to prevent drug-induced hearing loss.

Information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/ .

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. or an equivalent degree in neuroscience or related field.
• One or more first-author, peer-reviewed publication.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in calcium in vivo imaging or inner ear research is highly desirable.

Working Conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Salary Range

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

Applicant Special Instructions

Please apply by emailing a letter of interest, CV, and a list of three references to Dr. Jinkyung Kim at [email protected] .

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ .

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected]  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.