Postdoctoral Associate - Paper Coating with Bioplastics for Food Packaging Applications

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (VT); Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (VT) is seeking a Ph.D. researcher for innovative food packaging projects. The ideal candidate will need expertise in computational modeling and materials science, focusing on optimizing sustainable packaging solutions.

Responsibilities include experimental research, predictive modeling, and collaboration with industry partners. This position requires on-site presence and is exempt from overtime, offering salary commensurate with experience.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. awarded no more than four years prior to appointment with minimum one year eligibility remaining.
• Strong background in computational modeling and experimental design.
• Experience with fiber-based packaging for consumer products.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experimental research on paper-based materials for food packaging applications.
• Develop predictive models for packaging performance using machine learning.
• Conduct literature reviews and analyze existing methodologies.

Skills

Computational modeling

AI-assisted modeling

Microbial testing

Statistical analysis

Technical writing

Education

Ph.D. in Packaging Science or related 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. PhD 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.

Additional Information

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

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Commensurate with experience

Hours per week

40

Review Date

January 2, 2026

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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.