Whether it’s a sudden dash across the garage or silhouette in a backyard web, spiders evoke fear in many people. But researchers don’t have a clear picture of why, exactly, this phobia is so common. An interdisciplinary team at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is using state-of-the-art eye-tracking technology to pinpoint the physical characteristics of spiders that may contribute to the unease.
March 4, 2026
An interdisciplinary team at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is using state-of-the-art eye-tracking technology to pinpoint the physical characteristics of spiders that may contribute to unease. The team includes (from left) Kevin Smith, Leland J. and Dorothy H. Olson Professor of political science; Heather Akin, associate professor of agricultural leadership, education and communication; Eileen Hebets, George Holmes Professor of biological sciences; Emma Brase, graduate student in psychology; and Mike Do
Jordan Opp | University Communication and Marketing
