ABOUT RESEARCH AUDIOLOGY
First and foremost, we are audiologists. We use our knowledge and skills gained from our clinical education and experience to solve problems and help others in a research setting.
No two research audiologists have the exact same job design or responsibilities. We have been called the “multi-tool” of the research lab because of our diverse skillsets.
Learn more about what we do and where we work below. You may also wish to check out a blog post about one of our research audiologist's paths to working in the field on the NSSLHA blog.
WHAT DO RESEARCH AUDIOLOGISTS DO?
DESIGN STUDIES
As subject-matter experts on clinical audiology, we help design studies that improve research relevance by considering clinical concerns in the study design and considering the participant burden of the overall study requirements. Research audiologists may also generate stimuli, create surveys & questionnaires, and work with Institutional Review Boards (IRB) for study approval. We also have a part in developing the timeline of data collection.
RECRUIT PARTICIPANTS
We support subject recruitment of underserved and minority populations within the community through community-based events such as health fairs, occupational hearing screenings, and educational presentations. Research audiologists may also recruit subjects via database mining or coordination with clinical teams and educators.
MANAGE DATA COLLECTION
We ensure that lab equipment is calibrated and in good working order. Research audiologists perform behavioral or physiological assessments with participants to complete protocols. We also store and manage the data in data repositories or databases.
ANALYZE & INTERPRET DATA
We make sure data collection is moving along smoothly and evaluate whether protocols are being followed. We also perform statistical analyses, create data visualizations, and translate data into clinical implications.
DISSEMINATE FINDINGS
Because of our clinical background, research audiologists play a key role in interpreting and sharing research findings in ways that are useful for clinicians in their everyday practice. Research audiologists present at conferences, publish manuscripts, develop newsletters, infographics, and social media posts.
WHERE DO RESEARCH AUDIOLOGISTS WORK?
ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS
At academic research institutions, many professors have grant funding that supports their research program. Research audiologists may manage lab staff and data collection, provide clinical supervision, and oversee student projects.
HOSPITALS
Research audiologists who work in hospitals typically have their "ear to the ground" with respect to what's needed in the clinic. Because of the close proximity to ENT and Audiology clinics, research audiologists in hospitals may be involved in clinical trials with new devices or drug therapies.
INDUSTRY
Research audiologists working in industry (e.g., hearing aid manufacturers, medical equipment manufacturers) are on the cutting edge of technology that is being developed. They may create and/or validate new algorithms, features, devices, accessories, software, hardware, and more. Oftentimes, these researchers are working to ensure the product meets the needs of both the patient and clinician. In these roles, audiologists work on cross-functional teams including representatives from engineering, data science, sales, and marketing, to name a few.
MILITARY
Research audiologists who work in military settings may work with active-duty service members, veterans, and their family members. They often have a role in studies examining various impacts of noise exposure on hearing and are key advocates with policy towards improvements in hearing conservation program standards.