The Evolutionary Mechanics Lab (https://eeb.utk.edu/people/michael-granatosky/) in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, led by Dr. Michael Granatosky, is seeking a motivated postdoctoral research associate to conduct comparative biomechanical and evolutionary research. The successful candidate will contribute to broad research themes in the lab, including the evolution of locomotor strategies, the neuromuscular and musculoskeletal mechanisms that underlie movement, and the ways animals meet novel biomechanical challenges in both natural and experimental contexts. Current efforts in the lab explore locomotor trade-offs across species, behavioral and mechanical strategies of injury compensation, and the anatomical and functional bases of performance. Additional information about ongoing work can be found on Dr. Granatosky’s EEB profile (link above) and ResearchGate page: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Michael-Granatosky.

The preferred start date for this position is August 1, 2026. Funding is available for an initial one year, and the position may be renewed for up to one additional year (maximum of two years total), contingent upon performance and the availability of funding. Extensions beyond two years would require the acquisition of additional external funding. Salary will be competitive and commensurate with experience.

Required Qualifications:

• A PhD in organismal biology, biomechanics, comparative anatomy, evolutionary biology, or a closely related field.

• Applicants who are ABD will be considered, provided that all PhD requirements are completed by the start date (e.g., degree in hand by August).

• Knowledge of comparative biomechanics, evolutionary biology, and statistical/computational approaches relevant to biomechanical datasets.

• Skill in data collection and processing, including the use of high-speed videography, force plates, electromyography, metabolic systems, or morphometric methods.

• Ability to design reproducible experiments and analyze complex data using coding environments such as R, Python, or MATLAB.

• A strong record of publication demonstrating the ability to bring projects to completion.

• Ability to mentor student researchers and contribute to a collaborative laboratory environment.

• Ability to contribute to the development of external funding proposals.

• Preferred knowledge of advanced biomechanical modeling methods (e.g., musculoskeletal modeling, multibody dynamics, finite element analysis).

• Preferred knowledge of imaging techniques such as CT/μCT, ultrasound, or XROMM.

• Preferred skill in working with live animals, especially bats or small vertebrates, and supporting data collection at zoos or field sites.

Work Location

• Location: Knoxville, Tennessee

• Onsite

Compensation and Benefits

• Anticipated hiring range: $45,000 - $50,000

• Find more information on UT Benefits here

To Apply:

Please attach the following materials to the online application, and subsequently send them to Dr. Michael Granatosky (mgranato@utk.edu):

1. Curriculum vitae

2. A statement of research (up to 3 pages, single-spaced, 12-point font, 1-inch margins) that includes:

   • the candidate’s educational background and prior research experience,

   • current research focus and future research goals,

   • perceived competencies in scientific writing, coding, statistical analysis, and experimental methods,

   • a clear explanation of why the advertised postdoctoral position in the Evolutionary Mechanics Lab aligns with their interests and professional trajectory,

   • an honest assessment of personal strengths and weaknesses, and

   • what they hope to gain from this position and how it will support their long-term development as a scientist

3. A PDF of a first-author publication (published or in press)

4. Contact information for three references who can provide letters of recommendation upon request

An employment application must be submitted through the UTK HR system for full consideration. Applications will be reviewed as they arrive. Any questions about the position should be directed to Dr. Granatosky.

The position will involve experimental design, data collection and analysis, manuscript preparation, and participation in the development of external funding proposals. The postdoc will provide mentorship to undergraduate and graduate researchers in the lab and contribute to maintaining a collaborative, productive research environment. Research in the Evolutionary Mechanics Lab combines controlled laboratory experiments with opportunities for data collection at zoos and international field sites, and emphasizes broad training in biomechanics, anatomy, neuromuscular physiology, and comparative approaches.

This position requires full-time, in-person work, with occasional evening or weekend effort during experiments or outreach events. Responsibilities may also require travel to zoos, field sites, or partner institutions for data collection and outreach.