Postdoctoral Associate - Transportation Packaging and Distribution Systems Research

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

Job summary

Virginia Tech is seeking a motivated researcher to join its Sustainable Biomaterials department. This role involves advanced research on transport packaging optimization, utilizing skills in computational mechanics and experimental design. The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in Packaging Science or a related field, with experience in finite element analysis and a strong publication record. The position involves mentoring students and collaboration with industry partners, offering a chance to contribute to cutting-edge research in packaging solutions.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. should be awarded no more than four years prior to the appointment.
• Proven record of publishing refereed journal articles.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experimental research on transport packaging performance.
• Develop predictive models for packaging performance.
• Mentor graduate students on research projects.

Skills

Strong background in computational mechanics

Experience with finite element analysis

Knowledge of experimental design

Excellent technical writing skills

Education

Ph.D. in Packaging Science or related field

Tools

Python

MATLAB

Job description

Transportation Packaging and Distribution Systems Research

The department for Sustainable Biomaterials and its Center for Packaging and Unit Load Design (CPULD) at Virginia Tech are an internationally recognized leader in distribution packaging research and innovation. Our state‑of‑the‑art laboratory facilities include advanced testing equipment for vibration analysis, shock dynamics, compression testing, and thermal performance evaluation. Through collaborative partnerships with industry and government agencies, we conduct cutting‑edge research in transport packaging performance, unit load design, cold chain logistics, and sustainable packaging systems, addressing critical challenges in product protection, supply chain optimization, and distribution system efficiency.

We seek a highly motivated and collaborative researcher with expertise in engineering, materials science, or related computational fields to contribute to our research program focused on transport packaging optimization and distribution systems. Current research initiatives include developing advanced vibration analysis methodologies for wooden packaging systems, predictive modeling for packaging performance, and optimization of packaging designs for high‑value product distribution. The ideal candidate will bring strong analytical and experimental skills to address challenges in packaging dynamics, product protection, and sustainable packaging solutions.

The Individual Will Be Responsible For

• Design and conduct experimental research on transport packaging performance, including vibration, shock, and compression testing of packaging systems.
• Develop and implement predictive models for packaging performance using machine learning approaches and physics‑based simulations.
• Investigate logistics optimization strategies for packaging and distribution systems, including unit load design and supply chain efficiency.
• Collect, process, and analyze experimental data from mechanical testing equipment; prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Conduct comprehensive literature review and analysis of existing vibration data conversion methodologies, assessing their applicability to wooden packaging systems.
• Develop practical design guidelines, simplified analytical models, and best practices documentation for industry implementation of vibration testing and design optimization.
• Prepare research findings for publication in peer‑reviewed journals and present results at national and international conferences.
• Collaborate with industry partners on applied research projects and technology transfer initiatives, including workshop delivery and distribution of design tools.
• Mentor graduate students on research projects and laboratory procedures.
• Participate in the development of grant proposals for external funding from NSF, USDA NIFA, and other federal agencies.
• Limited teaching or outreach responsibilities may be assigned depending on interest and departmental needs.
• Given the nature of this work, this position is not eligible for telework.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Packaging Science, Wood Science, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering, Wood Science, or 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 mechanics, structural dynamics, or wood mechanics.
• Experience with finite element analysis and modal analysis techniques.
• Experience with vibration analysis, dynamic testing, or mechanical systems characterization.
• Proven record of publishing refereed journal articles and presenting at professional conferences.
• Strong understanding of experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment.
• Excellent technical writing, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lift or carry 50 lbs, obtain and maintain a valid Virginia Driver's license.
• Position requires considerable walking, standing, stooping, and bending, and requires the use of personal protective equipment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience applying machine learning models to structural systems, predictive modeling, or optimization problems related to packaging or mechanical systems.
• Background in logistics optimization, supply chain modeling, or distribution network analysis.
• Familiarity with vibration data analysis techniques.
• Experience with Monte Carlo simulation, uncertainty quantification, or sensitivity analysis.
• Programming skills in Python, MATLAB, R, or similar computational platforms.
• Experience with data acquisition systems, accelerometer arrays, and sensor integration for dynamic testing.
• Knowledge of packaging performance testing standards (ASTM D4169, ISTA) and test protocol development.
• Experience with wood material properties, orthotropic material modeling, or joint behavior under cyclic loading.

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

Hours per week: 40

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.