Fwd: Graduate Position: UTennessee_Knoxville.EvolBiomech

[Ellen Hostert]

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: <evo...@evol.biology.mcmaster.ca>
Date: Tue, Oct 21, 2025 at 12:55 AM
Subject: Graduate Position: UTennessee_Knoxville.EvolBiomech
To: <ehos...@maine.edu>

PhD Opportunities in Evolutionary Biomechanics

University of Tennessee, Knoxville – Department of Ecology &
Evolutionary Biology

Application deadline: December 1, 2025

The Evolutionary Biomechanics Lab, led by Dr. Michael Granatosky,
is recruiting PhD students to begin in Fall 2026. Research in the lab
investigates the evolution of animal locomotion, with a focus on how
species meet novel biomechanical challenges and how these challenges
drive morphological and behavioral innovation.

Current projects explore:

Evolutionary trade-offs in the bat postcranial skeleton, testing links
between flight and terrestrial performance

The evolution of anatomical novelties and how neuromuscular systems
learn to use them

The evolution of autotomy (self-amputation) in vertebrates and
invertebrates and its consequences for locomotor biomechanics

Students in the lab receive broad, hands-on training in functional and
anatomical biomechanics—including high-speed videography, force plate
analysis, electromyography, metabolic measurements, dissections, and
morphometrics—and learn to apply comparative phylogenetic statistical
methods to test evolutionary scenarios. Research combines controlled
laboratory experiments with opportunities for data collection at zoos and
international field sites. Mentorship emphasizes collaborative inquiry
and the development of independent research skills within a supportive,
team-based environment.

Learn more:

Lab website: https://eeb.utk.edu/people/michael-granatosky/

Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology: https://eeb.utk.edu/

The Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology at the University of
Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) is home to a dynamic and growing team of
researchers and educators studying evolution, ecology, and organismal
biology. All graduate students in the department receive five years
of guaranteed funding, including a competitive stipend and benefits,
supported through a combination of fellowships, teaching assistantships,
and research assistantships.

Graduate program details:
https://eeb.utk.edu/graduate-students/applying-to-grad-school/

To inquire or apply:

Prospective students are encouraged to contact Dr. Michael Granatosky
(mgra...@utk.edu) to discuss potential projects and applications.

"Granatosky, Michael C" <mgra...@utk.edu>

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Important!  I check email once a day, and often not at all on weekends.  I will respond to your message.  Thank you for your patience.

Ellen E. Hostert, Ph.D. (she/her)
Professor of Biology
University of Maine at Machias
116 O'Brien Avenue
Machias, ME 04654
(207) 255-1301
ehos...@maine.edu