Postdoctoral Research Associate

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (VT); Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 53,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Research Faculty member to collaborate on innovative projects in bioplastic fermentation and anaerobic digestion. This role offers a unique opportunity to work closely with leading experts, engage in grant writing, and mentor students. The position is ideal for those passionate about research and eager to contribute to groundbreaking studies. Join a vibrant academic community dedicated to advancing knowledge and solving real-world problems. With a commitment to inclusivity and professional development, this role promises to be both fulfilling and impactful.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. should be awarded no more than four years prior to appointment.
• Strong publication record and excellent writing skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Work with Dr. Zhiwu Wang on federal and industrial projects.
• Lead research projects and mentor graduate students.

Skills

Excellent writing skills

Research experience in bioreactor design

Technoeconomic analysis

Life cycle analysis

Self-motivated research leadership

Interpersonal skills

Desire to publish high-quality research articles

Education

Ph.D. in Chemical/Environmental/Biological Engineering

Job description

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 532786
Work type: Research Faculty
Senior management: Agriculture & Life Sciences
Department: Biological Systems Engineering
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Agriculture / Life Science, Research / Scientific

Job Description

The successful candidate will closely work with Dr. Zhiwu (Drew) Wang on delivering both federal and industrial projects on the topics of arrested anaerobic digestion, volatile fatty acid production, bioplastic fermentation, bioplastic recovery & purification, mathematical modeling, and technology scale-up. The successful candidate will also have opportunities to be involved in grant writings, graduate student mentoring, and project leading. The position is immediately available. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled. The initial appointment will be for one year with possibility for extension based on performance.

Required Qualifications

1. Ph.D. in Chemical/Environmental/Biological Engineering, or a related field.
2. Excellent writing skill and productive publication record.
3. The Ph.D. degree should have been awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of this appointment with a minimum of one year of eligibility remaining.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Research experience in bioreactor design and operation.
2. Capable of doing technoeconomic analysis and life cycle analysis.
3. Self-motivated to lead research endeavors.
4. Good human skills to interact with external collaborators.
5. Desire to publish high number and quality research articles.

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

53,550-65,029

Review Date

04/20/2025

Additional Information

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

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

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.

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

Advertised: April 23, 2025
Applications close: Open until filled