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.
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.