Career

How To Become An Auditory Health Researcher In Iowa 2024

Learn everything you need to know about becoming an Auditory Health Researcher, including salary, schools, and programs.

Auditory Health Researcher in Iowa Career Overview

As an Auditory Health Researcher, you dedicate your efforts to enhancing our understanding of hearing and auditory processing. Here are key aspects of your role:

  • Research Focus: You conduct scientific investigations aimed at exploring various aspects of auditory health, including hearing loss, tinnitus, sound perception, and the impact of noise exposure on hearing abilities.

  • Methodologies Utilized: You employ a range of research methodologies, including clinical trials, epidemiological studies, laboratory experiments, and population-based research to gather data and analyze auditory conditions.

  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Your role often involves collaboration with professionals in related fields such as audiology, neuroscience, psychology, and public health. This teamwork enriches the research process and leads to more comprehensive findings.

  • Data Analysis and Interpretation: An essential part of your work includes analyzing complex data sets, utilizing statistical techniques, and interpreting results to develop insights and recommendations for improving auditory health.

  • Contribution to Public Health: Your work significantly impacts public health policies, contributing to strategies aimed at preventing hearing loss and promoting auditory wellness in communities.

  • Innovation and Development: You may also be involved in the development of new diagnostic tools, treatment methods, or rehabilitation techniques that enhance auditory health outcomes for individuals.

  • Education and Dissemination: You play a role in educating healthcare professionals and the public about auditory health issues, and you publish your findings in scientific journals to further the body of knowledge in the field.

Your contributions as an Auditory Health Researcher are vital in addressing the growing issues related to hearing and auditory processing, ultimately leading to better interventions and improved quality of life for individuals affected by auditory conditions.

Best Schools to become a Auditory Health Researcher near Iowa 2024

#10Dane County

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI

In-State Tuition:$9,273
Out-of-State Tuition:$37,904
Admission Rate:49%
Graduation Rate:89%
Total Enrollment:48,956
#7McLean County

Illinois State University

Normal, IL

In-State Tuition:$10,907
Out-of-State Tuition:$20,175
Admission Rate:86%
Graduation Rate:67%
Total Enrollment:20,683

Auditory Health Researcher Salary in Iowa

Annual Median: $85,900
Hourly Median: $41.3

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become an Auditory Health Researcher in Iowa

To become an Auditory Health Researcher, you will need specific educational qualifications and training. Here are the recommended college degree programs:

  • Audiology: A Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree is essential. This program focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of hearing and balance disorders and typically includes coursework in anatomy, acoustics, and auditory processing.

  • Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology: A combined program leading to a Master’s degree in both Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology can provide a comprehensive understanding of auditory health. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics regarding auditory and speech disorders, allowing for a broader scope of research.

  • Auditory Health: This specialization may be a component of a larger program focused on audiological sciences or public health. Pursuing a Master’s degree concentrating on auditory health will equip you with the necessary knowledge in assessing and promoting auditory wellness.

  • Hearing Instrument Specialist: An associate degree or certification in Hearing Instrument Technology prepares individuals for roles that deal directly with the fitting and maintenance of hearing aids. This training can be beneficial for those looking to understand the practical applications of auditory devices in research.

Additionally, pursuing internships or research assistant positions during your educational journey will enhance your practical experience in auditory health research.

Best Schools to become a Auditory Health Researcher near Iowa 2024

#10Dane County

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI

In-State Tuition:$9,273
Out-of-State Tuition:$37,904
Admission Rate:49%
Graduation Rate:89%
Total Enrollment:48,956
#7McLean County

Illinois State University

Normal, IL

In-State Tuition:$10,907
Out-of-State Tuition:$20,175
Admission Rate:86%
Graduation Rate:67%
Total Enrollment:20,683
Auditory Health Researcher Job Description:
  • Assess and treat persons with hearing and related disorders.
  • May fit hearing aids and provide auditory training.
  • May perform research related to hearing problems.

Auditory Health Researcher Required Skills and Competencies in Iowa

  • Analytical Skills: You must be proficient in analyzing complex data sets, identifying trends, and drawing meaningful conclusions from research findings. This includes the ability to apply statistical methods and software tools to interpret auditory health data effectively.

  • Attention to Detail: Accuracy is essential in auditory health research. You should possess strong attention to detail to ensure that experiments are conducted properly, data is collected accurately, and results are reported without errors.

  • Communication Skills: You will need to communicate your research findings clearly and effectively to various audiences, including academic peers, healthcare professionals, and the general public. This includes writing research papers, presenting findings at conferences, and engaging in discussions.

  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with laboratory equipment and software used in auditory research is important. You should be comfortable using audiometers, specialized testing equipment, and statistical analysis software.

  • Problem-Solving Abilities: As an auditory health researcher, you will encounter numerous challenges throughout your research process. You should be equipped with strong problem-solving skills to develop innovative solutions and overcome obstacles.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Collaborative projects are common in research. The ability to work effectively in teams, build relationships with colleagues, and engage with participants will contribute to successful outcomes.

  • Project Management: You may manage multiple research projects simultaneously, so strong organizational and time management skills are vital. You need to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and ensure that research protocols are followed.

  • Ethical Awareness: Understanding ethical considerations in research is essential. You should be knowledgeable about confidentiality, informed consent, and the ethical treatment of research participants, ensuring that your work aligns with relevant guidelines and standards.

  • Adaptability: The field of auditory health research is continuously evolving. You should be adaptable and open to learning new techniques, methodologies, and technologies to stay current and enhance your research contributions.

Job Duties for Auditory Health Researchers

  • Evaluate hearing and balance disorders to determine diagnoses and courses of treatment.

  • Fit, dispense, and repair assistive devices, such as hearing aids.

  • Maintain patient records at all stages, including initial and subsequent evaluation and treatment activities.

Technologies and Skills Used by Auditory Health Researchers

Medical software

  • Healthcare common procedure coding system HCPCS
  • eClinicalWorks EHR software

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Reading work related information

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Social

  • Looking for ways to help people
  • Understanding people's reactions

Job Market and Opportunities for Auditory Health Researcher in Iowa

The job market for Auditory Health Researchers in Iowa is characterized by a growing demand fueled by increasing awareness of hearing health issues and advancements in auditory technologies. As the population ages, the need for research focused on hearing loss, auditory processing, and intervention strategies has become more pronounced.

  • Demand for Auditory Health Researchers:

    • There is a significant surge in public and private organizations seeking to improve auditory health outcomes.
    • Institutions focused on health care, technology innovation, and academia are investing in research and development to address hearing-related challenges.

  • Growth Potential:

    • The field of auditory health research is expanding rapidly, with expected growth across various sectors including healthcare, academia, and non-profit organizations focused on audiology and public health.
    • Innovations in technology, such as telemedicine and hearing aid advancements, are likely to increase research opportunities and funding in auditory health.

  • Geographical Hotspots in Iowa:

    • Major urban areas such as Des Moines, Iowa City, and Cedar Rapids host various healthcare facilities, research institutions, and universities with dedicated programs in audiology and auditory health.
    • Partnerships between universities and local healthcare providers create an ecosystem for research collaboration, enhancing job prospects for auditory health researchers.
    • Facilities like the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and the University of Iowa have established strong audiology departments, contributing to a robust research environment.

The demand for auditory health research is poised to continue its upward trajectory, making Iowa a promising location for professionals in this field.

Top Related Careers to Auditory Health Researcher 2024

Occupational Audiologist
Hearing Aid Specialist
Pediatric Audiologist
Hearing Rehabilitation Specialist

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Auditory Health Researcher in Iowa

  • American Auditory Society (AAS)

    • Explore the AAS for a wealth of information on auditory research, publications, and conferences.
    • Website: American Auditory Society

  • American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)

  • National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)

    • This federal agency offers research findings, funding opportunities, and educational resources related to hearing and balance disorders.
    • Website: NIDCD

  • Ear and Hearing Journal

    • A leading journal that publishes original research, reviews, and clinical reports in the field of auditory health.
    • Website: Ear and Hearing

  • International Society of Audiology (ISA)

  • National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

    • Review studies and resources on noise-induced hearing loss and workplace auditory health.
    • Website: NIOSH

  • Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA)

  • AudiologyOnline

    • A professional portal offering webinars, articles, and networking opportunities for those interested in auditory health research.
    • Website: AudiologyOnline

  • Society for Neuroscience

    • Access a plethora of research articles focusing on auditory neuroscience and related topics.
    • Website: Society for Neuroscience

  • PubMed

    • Utilizing PubMed will guide you to a vast repository of scientific papers and articles focused on auditory health research.
    • Website: PubMed

Utilize these resources to expand your knowledge, stay updated on advancements, and engage with the auditory health community as you pursue a career as an Auditory Health Researcher in Iowa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Auditory Health Researcher in Iowa

  • What is the primary role of an auditory health researcher?
    The primary role of an auditory health researcher is to investigate hearing disorders, their causes, effects, and potential treatments. This can encompass clinical research, laboratory experiments, and the development of new hearing devices or therapies.

  • What educational background is required to become an auditory health researcher?
    Typically, a Doctorate degree (Ph.D.) in audiology, hearing science, biomedical engineering, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree may be sufficient for some positions, especially those focused on clinical applications.

  • What skills are essential for success in this career?
    Important skills include analytical thinking, strong communication abilities, proficiency in statistical software, and a solid understanding of both auditory physiology and research methodologies.

  • What employment opportunities are available in Iowa for auditory health researchers?
    Opportunities exist within universities, hospitals, research institutions, and private companies that focus on audiological devices. Some researchers may also be involved in academic teaching or consulting.

  • Is it necessary to obtain certification or licensure?
    While certification or licensure may not be mandatory for all research positions, obtaining credentials like the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology (CCC-A) can be beneficial, especially if you plan to conduct clinical research or practice.

  • What types of research projects might I work on?
    You might work on a range of projects, including studies related to hearing loss prevention, the effectiveness of hearing aids, cochlear implant technology, or the psychosocial impacts of hearing impairments on patients.

  • Are there opportunities for advancement in this field?
    Yes, career advancement can be achieved through gaining experience, publishing research, and obtaining additional qualifications. Senior positions may involve managing research teams or leading large-scale studies.

  • What is the typical work environment for auditory health researchers?
    You will likely work in research laboratories, academic settings, or clinical environments. The work may involve collaboration with other healthcare professionals, as well as engaging with patients in clinical settings.

  • How can I stay updated on advancements in auditory health research?
    Joining professional organizations, attending conferences, subscribing to relevant journals, and participating in ongoing education programs can help you stay informed about the latest research findings and technologies.

  • What are the salary prospects for auditory health researchers in Iowa?
    Salary can vary based on experience, education, and specific job roles. Entry-level positions might start in the range of $50,000 to $70,000 annually, while experienced researchers in academic or leadership positions can earn upwards of $100,000.