Postdoctoral Research in Behavioral Ecology

The Goyes Lab in the Division of Biology in the College of Arts & Science.

The Goyes Lab in the Division of Biological Sciences at the University of Missouri is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to join a dynamic research program focused on the reproductive behavior and ecology of Belostomatidae (water bugs) in Missouri, with an emphasis on parental care behavior.

The successful candidate will contribute to various research themes in the lab, focusing on the evolution of mating systems, sexual selection, parental care, and intersexual communication. They will conduct research on Belostoma species that exhibit parental care in Missouri, with opportunities to expoore acoustic and vibrational communication, social behavior, and reproductive strategies.

The preferred start date for this position is September 1, 2026 or as soon as possible. Funding is available for up to two years, the initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal contingent on satisfactory performance.

This position is mentored by Dr. Johana Goyes Vallejos, whose research investigates how ecologial, behavioral, and life-history factors shape the evolution of parental care. The lab integrates animal behavior, bioacoustics, morphology, and ecology. We are committed to building a curiosity-driven reasearch environment.

Responsibilities

The postdoctoral researcher will join an active research community with opportunities to lead and collaborate on new research directions, gain mentoring experience, and contribute to grant development. The postdoctoral researcher is expected to contribute to a collaborative lab culture and to engage in outreach and professional development activities.

This position involves extensive field collection of wild animals and requires a strong interest in field-based research. Enthusiasm for working outdoors in the Midwestern United States, is essential. Fieldwork may involve long hours in wetlands and forested habitats under challenging environmental conditions, including heat, humidity, wading ponds, biting insects, and unpredictable weather. An appreciation for Midwestern ecosystems and comfot working in remote outdoor settings are important for success in this role.

The postdoctoral resercher will be responsible for establishing and maintaining a laboratory colony of water bugs, designing and conducting behavioral experiments, collecting, managing, and analyzing data, and disseminating research through peer-reviewed publications.

Research activities are driven by seasonal animal behavior and environmental conditions, and therefore periods of intensive fieldwork may involve night and weekend work, extended field hours, and flexible scheduling during peak activity periods. Candidates should be comfortable with dynamic and time-sensitive field research.

Candidates must be willing and able to drive to and from field sites at night; a valid drivers license is required.

Ph.D. in biology, organismal biology, ecology, evolution, animal behavior, or a closely related field.

Demonstrated expertise in behavioral ecology, particularly collecting and scoring animal behavior data.

Excellent organizational, analytical, and writing skills, with a strong publication record (appropriate to their career stage) in animal behavior and/or entomology journals demonstrating the ability to bring projects to completion.

Quantitative/data analysis skills. (e.g., R or similar).

Available to work flexibly during hours that will include nights and weekends during the field season.

Interest in mentoring student researchers and contributing to a collaborative laboratory environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with fieldwork, establishing and maintaining laboatory colonies, and experimental design in behavioral studies.

Preferred experience in sexual selection, mating systems, mate choice and/or parental care behavior.

Preferred skill in working with live animals, especially insects.

To Apply, submit the following:

• Cover letter describing background and research experience, research focus and future goals, competencies and relevant skills. Additionally, what you hope to gain from this position and how it will support your long-term development as a scientist.
• Curriculum vitae
• 1-2 first author representative publication (published or in press)

Questions related to the position may be emailed to Dr. Johana Goyes Vallejos (jogoyes@missouri.edu). Contact Talia Gholson (gholsont@missouri.edu) for any questions about the application process.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, but applications received by July 10, 2026 will receive first consideration. Expected start date is September 1, 2026.

Visa Sponsorship Information:
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The University will not sponsor applicants for this position for employment visas.

Please note: This is an in-person role located on the University of Missouri-Columbia campus. Candidates must be residents of the state of Missouri or willing to relocate prior to the hire date.

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours' drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County's largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.