Azim Premji University invites applications from students with a MSc degree in Biology (preferably with a life science, zoology, or ecology background) to apply for a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) post. The SERB funded interdisciplinary project ​“Length scales in social spider webs: comparative web-building behavior across species ’ will be in collaboration with civil engineers from IISc and Behavioral Ecologist from IISER, TVM.

Social spider webs are fascinating extended phenotypes with a chaotic web structure. We compare and contrast three specific social spider species with vastly different length scales in nature in this project. While their phylogeny is closely related, their web-building strategies are vastly different. This research will bring together the complementary strengths of behavioural ecologists, and evolutionary and mechanicians to understand the mechanics, dynamics and social behaviour of spider webs. Using a slew of imaging techniques and corresponding finite element analysis, we will use lab-based behaviour experimental assays to study how strategies evolve in closely related species using a mechanistic approach.

Age Limit: JRF / Project Assistant: 35 years with 3 – 5 years relaxation for SC/​ST/​OBC/​Women and Physically disabled as per government norms

For one year, extendable to 2 years based on performance.

JRF = 37,000 + 24% HRA.

The candidate should have a minimum of 60% marks (or equivalent grade) in the qualifying degree preferably. Additional qualifications for JRF are: Post-graduate degree Biological Sciences with valid NET qualification, OR Graduate Degree in a Professional Course in Biological Sciences with NET qualification.

In case a suitable candidate with the above qualifications is not found, candidates with a Post-graduate degree in Biological Sciences may be appointed as Project Assistant if selected.

Experience in Behavioural Ecology and a working knowledge of R is highly desirable.

Please email your resume, one page write up about why you are interested in this project to divya.​uma@​apu.​edu.​in before Feb 15 2025. Other specifications are mentioned below. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by email.

Completed applications should be sent by email to divvy.​uma@​apu.​edu.​in with a subject line saying DST-JRF position for spider project.

The application should contain a detailed resume, a one page statement of interest. Please include contact details (phone number, email and postal address), scanned copies of educational/​professional qualifications, and names of two referrals.