Bio
Riley DeBacker, AuD, PhD, is the 2025 recipient of the Early-Career Audiologist Award. Dr. DeBacker earned his doctorate in audiology in 2020 and a doctorate in philosophy in 2021 from the Ohio State University. Dr. DeBacker is a researcher at the National Center for Auditory Rehabilitative Research (NCRAR) in the Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center in Portland, Oregon.
Dr. DeBacker is a tireless advocate in the areas of audiology, diversity, equality, and inclusion. He is the founder of Queer Empowerment for Audiologists, Researchers, and Students (QuEARS), an LGBTQ+ affinity group. At NCRAR he is a member of the Mentoring Core, and a member and former co-chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. Dr. DeBacker is the managing director of Hear for Ears Free Audiology Clinic. In addition, Dr. DeBacker has served in various roles for the American Academy of Audiology, including past president of the National Student Academy of Audiology, a member of the Guidelines and Strategic Documents Committee, and chair of the Scientific Posters Committee for the Academy in 2023.
Dr. DeBacker has a total of 15 peer-reviewed scholarly publications and a growing portfolio of research presentations at both national and international conferences. Dr. DeBacker has developed a line of research investigating potential auditory deficits in participants who are HIV+ and who have a medical history of antiretroviral therapy exposure. He has successfully competed for research funding to continue this ground-breaking work, receiving a Career Development Award in January 2024.
Dr. DeBacker taught at Pacific University, Oregon Health and Science University, and at State University of New York-New Platz, teaching undergraduate and graduate audiology courses. Colleagues of Dr. DeBacker have described him as a “natural and effective teacher.” Due to his exceptional mentoring of an undergraduate student in 2021, Dr. DeBacker received the Excellence in Undergraduate Research Mentoring Award from the Ohio State University.
Dr. DeBacker is an exceptionally accomplished audiologist and respected young professional. The American Academy of Audiology is pleased to recognize Dr. DeBacker as a more than deserving recipient of the 2025 Early-Career Audiologist Award.