Postdoctoral Research Associate - Biology
Washington University in St. Louis
Washington, DC, USA · Danforth, ME, USA
Posted on Oct 4, 2025
Position Summary
A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Andreas Kautt in the Department of Biology on the Danforth Campus at WashU in St. Louis.The Kautt Lab studies the mechanisms and conditions driving the evolution of biological diversity, with a focus on animal behavior. This position will provide an excellent opportunity for the successful candidate to perform research on behavioral evolution in deer mice, with primary emphasis on designing and conducting behavioral experiments and analyses. The position will also involve exposure to complementary approaches including evolutionary genetics/genomics, molecular laboratory techniques, and field-based research.
Job Description
Primary Duties & Responsibilities:
Information on being a postdoc at WashU in St. Louis can be found at https://postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/.
Trains under the supervision of a faculty mentor including (but not limited to):
- Design and conduct experiments and analyze data using appropriate statistical approaches.
- Prepare scientific manuscripts and present research at relevant venues.
- Mentor and train other lab members.
- Participate in lab meetings and departmental events.
- Career development activities (workshops, fellowship applications, etc.).
- Help maintain laboratory animal colonies.
- Other duties as assigned.
Working Conditions:
This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.
Salary Range:
Base pay is commensurate with experience.
Applicant Special Instructions:
Interested candidates should upload documents providing (at least) all of the following information for an application packet to be considered complete:
- Cover letter (i) summarizing past/current research, (ii) indicating future research interests, (iii) long-term plans, and (iv) expected starting date.
- Academic-style curriculum vitae including (i) education, (ii) relevant experience, (iii) presentations, (iv) publications, and (v) names and contact information for 2-3 references.
Required Qualifications
Education:
Ph.D., M.D. Or Equivalent Terminal Or Doctoral Degree.
Certifications:
Work Experience:
Skills:
Driver's License:
More About This Job
Required Qualifications:
- Ph.D., M.D. or equivalent terminal or doctoral degree in Biology, Evolutionary Biology, Animal Behavior, Neuroscience, or related field.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with rodent behavior and olfaction.
- Proficiency in Python or other programming language for large data analysis.
- Experience with quantitative approaches to studying animal behavior.
- Experience with machine vision approaches, coupled with a strong interest in evolutionary questions.
Preferred Qualifications
Education:
No additional education unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.
Certifications:
Work Experience:
Skills:
Questions
For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.
Accommodation
If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.
All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.