Postdoctoral Associate - Forest Sector Competitiveness

Virginia Tech; Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Tech invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate in the Department of Sustainable Biomaterials to support a project enhancing Virginia's forest sector competitiveness. The role involves conducting research, developing materials, and collaborating with diverse stakeholders. Required qualifications include a Ph.D. in related fields and experience in qualitative/quantitative methods. This position offers growth opportunities in applied research and science communication. Salary is commensurate with experience, and the role involves a 40-hour work week.

Qualifications

• PhD must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment.
• Demonstrated experience in mixed-methods research.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Conduct mixed-methods research on Virginia's forest sector.
• Develop extension materials and contribute to publications.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across academia and industry.

Skills

Qualitative research methods

Quantitative research methods

Strong communication skills

Collaboration in interdisciplinary teams

Education

Ph.D. in Forest Products, Forestry, Natural Resources, Sustainability, or related field

Tools

SPSS

NVivo

Job description

Job Description

The Department of Sustainable Biomaterials at Virginia Tech invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate to support a project titled “Advancing the Competitiveness of Virginia’s Forest Sector Industry: A Mixed-Methods Approach.” This interdisciplinary research initiative integrates stakeholder engagement, market analysis, and policy evaluation to develop a strategic competitiveness framework for Virginia’s forest sector.

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will work closely with Dr. Pipiet Larasatie and collaborators across academia, industry, and extension to conduct mixed-methods research, develop extension materials, and contribute to peer‑reviewed publications. The position offers opportunities for professional development in applied research, science communication, and stakeholder collaboration.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Forest Products, Forestry, Natural Resources, Sustainability, or a related field. PhD must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.
• Demonstrated experience in qualitative and/or quantitative research methods.
• Strong communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with stakeholder engagement or extension programming.
• Familiarity with statistical software (e.g., SPSS) and qualitative analysis tools (e.g., NVivo).
• Knowledge of forest sector dynamics, rural development, or bioeconomy transitions.
• Experience in publishing peer‑reviewed research and developing outreach materials.

Compensation & Details

Salary: commensurate with experience. Hours per week: 40. Overtime: exempt (not eligible). Appointment type: restricted.

Additional Requirements

Required: criminal conviction check and driving check.

Application Materials

• Cover Letter outlining research interests and alignment with the project.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) including publications and relevant experience.
• Contact Information for Three References.

EEO Statement

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

Accommodation Request

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Trish Colley at [e-mail] during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.