The department of Biology is a large, unified department with strong undergraduate degrees, nationally-ranked graduate programs, and world-class research spanning the breadth of biological questions and experimental systems — from ecosystems to microbiology and developmental biology, from evolution to cell biology, from molecular biology to systems biology, bioinformatics, and genomics. It is always an exciting time for Biology — enormous advances in global genome analysis coupled with unprecedented developments in interdisciplinary research have made the 21st century the Century of Biology. For more information about the department, you can find it here: About: Department of Biology: Indiana University Bloomington.

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The Stafstrom Lab in the Department of Biology at Indiana University, Bloomington is seeking a postdoctoral researcher. Our lab in Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior investigates the sensory ecology of net-casting spiders with the aim to better understand the evolution of sensory systems and their links with predatory behavior. This enigmatic study system provides a great variety of research avenues across proximate and ultimate mechanisms of behavior. As such, we are open to considering applicants with interest and experience in neurophysiology, sensor morphology, histology, animal behavior, biomechanics, and metabolics.

The postdoc will be expected to lead the development and data collection of projects in line with their interests and the research program of the lab, contribute to student mentorship, participate in field collections/field work, and communicate results through scientific publications and conference presentations. The Stafstrom Lab is dedicated to the professional development of all lab members and will provide opportunities to develop skills in teaching, mentorship and outreach

Experience: Ph.D. in Biology or similar field by time of hire. Experience with spiders is not necessary. Evidence of past productivity (e.g., first-author publications, fellowships, grants) and strong written and oral communication skills.

To apply: submit (1) a cover letter describing your research and education background, career goals, why you are interested in this position, and the date you are available to start, (2) your CV, and (3) the names and contact information of 2-3 references. These can be submitted at the following link: https://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/34949. For questions about the position, contact Jay Stafstrom (Jstafstr@iu.edu).

Timing and compensation: Review of applicants will begin Nov 19 and continue until the position is filled. November 19, 2026, is the best consideration date. The ideal start date is early 2027 but can be adjusted based on the selected candidate’s availability. The initial appointment is for 1 year, with possible reappointment thereafter contingent upon satisfactory performance. Salary will mirror the NIH scale (i.e. 1st year postdoc is $63,480).