Postdoctoral Associate - Paper Coating with Bioplastics for Food Packaging Applications

Virginia Tech; Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Tech is seeking a researcher to join the Department of Sustainable Biomaterials, focusing on sustainable food packaging. The candidate will conduct experimental research on paper-based materials, develop predictive models, and mentor graduate students. A Ph.D. in a relevant field is required, with a strong background in computational modeling and excellent technical writing skills. This role is on-site in Blacksburg, Virginia, and involves collaboration with industry partners on innovative packaging solutions.

Qualifications

• Strong background in computational modeling, AI‑assisted modeling, microbial testing, or paper chemistry.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment.
• Excellent technical writing and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experimental research on paper‑based materials.
• Develop predictive models for packaging performance.
• Mentor graduate students and assist in developing grant proposals.

Skills

Computational modeling

Technical writing

Data analysis

Interpersonal skills

Education

Ph.D. in relevant field

Job description

Job Description

The Department of Sustainable Biomaterials and the Laboratory for Sustainable Packaging Materials are internationally recognized leaders in sustainable packaging research and innovation. Our state‑of‑the‑art facilities support advanced manufacturing processes involving biopolymers, bioplastics, and other functional materials. Through strong collaborations with industry and government partners, we conduct cutting‑edge research on paper‑coating technologies using aqueous spray‑coating methods to address emerging challenges in food and healthcare packaging.

We are seeking a highly motivated and collaborative researcher with expertise in engineering, materials science, or related computational fields to contribute to our growing research program in sustainable food packaging. Current initiatives include developing advanced aqueous emulsion and suspension systems for spray coating, predictive modeling of packaging performance, and optimizing packaging designs for high‑value product applications. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical and experimental skills to address complex challenges related to packaging dynamics, product protection, and sustainable material performance.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experimental research on paper‑based materials for food packaging applications.
• Develop predictive models for packaging performance using machine learning and physicochemical modeling approaches.
• Investigate interactions between food products and paper‑based packaging materials across diverse product categories.
• Collect, process, and analyze experimental data, including antimicrobial testing; prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Conduct literature reviews and analyze existing vibration data conversion methodologies to assess applicability to paper packaging systems.
• Develop practical design guidelines, simplified analytical models, and best‑practice documentation for industrial implementation.
• Prepare research findings for publication in peer‑reviewed journals and present work at national and international conferences.
• Collaborate with industry partners on applied research and technology transfer initiatives, including workshops and distribution of design tools.
• Mentor graduate students in research methods and laboratory procedures.
• Assist in developing competitive grant proposals for external funding from agencies such as NSF and USDA NIFA.
• Participate in limited teaching or outreach activities as assigned.
• Work on‑site; this position is not eligible for telework.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Packaging Science, Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Paper Science, Wood Science, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering, or a related field. Ph.D. must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.
• Strong background in computational modeling, AI‑assisted modeling, microbial testing, or paper chemistry and structural evaluation.
• Experience with fiber‑based packaging for consumer products, including specialty crops.
• Demonstrated record of publishing refereed journal articles and presenting at professional conferences.
• Demonstrated authorship in peer‑reviewed publications.
• Strong understanding of experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment.
• Excellent technical writing, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to perform tasks requiring substantial walking, standing, stooping, and bending; must use appropriate personal protective equipment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in food packaging applications utilizing fiber‑based packaging systems.
• Background in food science, materials science, or chemical engineering.
• Familiarity with statistical evaluation methods.
• Familiarity with AI technologies.
• Knowledge of packaging performance testing standards.
• Experience with fiber material properties, orthotropic material modeling, or joint behavior under cyclic loading.

Other Information

Overtime Status: Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type: Restricted

Salary Information: Commensurate with experience

Hours per week: 40

Review Date: January 2, 2026

Additional Information: The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. 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 any other protected category. 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.