Job Description

A postdoctoral opening is immediately available in the Soft Materials and Structures Lab under the direction of Dr. Michael Bartlett at Virginia Tech (https://bartlett.me.vt.edu/). The position is in the area of soft electronics, adhesion science, and system integration. The project will focus on the fabrication, characterization, and implementation of novel soft devices, with particular emphasis on adhesion control, wet/underwater adhesion, soft sensors, and multifunctional interfaces.

Please include a cover letter, CV with publication list, no more than three representative publications, and contact information for 3 references.

Required Qualifications

PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Polymer Science and Engineering, Electrical 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.

Preferred Qualifications

Expertise in fabrication and characterization of soft electronic systems, including stretchable conductors, liquid metal composites, multilayer soft circuits, or microfabrication techniques.
Research experience in adhesion science, including dry, wet, or underwater adhesion, switchable adhesion mechanisms, or interfacial mechanics.
Strong record of high-quality publications in relevant areas (soft materials, adhesion, electronics, additive manufacturing, mechanics).
Experience mentoring graduate/undergraduate researchers and working effectively in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.
Excellent communication skills, including experience preparing manuscripts, presentations, and/or grant-related materials.

Overtime Status
Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type
Restricted

Hours per week
40

Review Date
January 26, 2026

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

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA, USA

"Postdoctoral Associate"

Applications Close