"Postdoctoral Associate"

Postdoctoral Associate

Company: Virginia Tech

Job Location: Blacksburg, 24061

Category: Civil and Environmental Engineering

Type: Adjunct/Part-Time

Job Description

Dr. Zhiwu (Drew) Wang's research team at Virginia Tech invites applications from highly motivated candidates specializing in civil and environmental engineering, with a focus on advanced microplastic extraction, detection, and quantification technologies. This position will actively contribute to federally funded and industry-supported projects. The initial appointment is for one year with opportunities for extension based on performance and funding availability. The position is immediately available. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled. Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.

Applicants may contact Dr. Zhiwu (Drew) Wang at wzw@vt.edu with any questions about this position. Please include "2026 Microplastics Postdoc Application" as your email subject. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the positions are filled. Interested candidates should send an enquiry email only once. Best fit potential candidates will receive the responses, and video conference interviews will follow.

About the Research Team and Virginia Tech: For more details about Dr. Wang's lab, ongoing research, facilities, and recent publications, please visit: www.wang.bse.vt.edu. Virginia Tech, located in Blacksburg, VA, ranks #51 nationally and #10 in Biological Systems Engineering, offering excellent research resources and career development opportunities.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering, with an interdisciplinary foundation in chemistry engineering. Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.
• Proven expertise in microplastic characterization technologies, including sample collection, extraction method development, and analytical techniques, supported by laboratory and/or pilot-scale investigations.
• Strong analytical skills and extensive experience with advanced microscopy and mass spectrometry platforms for identifying and quantifying microplastics and associated contaminants.
• Demonstrated skills in scientific writing, manuscript preparation, and research reporting.
• Ability to carry 50 pounds of weight for the field work.
• Valid U.S. driver's license and a personal vehicle for daily commute and field work.

Preferred Qualifications

• Documented experience in industrial research project leadership, including successful active involvement as a project leader in interdisciplinary collaborations.
• Established publication record with high-quality peer-reviewed articles, and served as a peer reviewer for submitted manuscripts.
• Ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary research teams and mentor junior researchers in laboratory methods, data analysis, and academic writing.
• Interest in mentoring graduate and undergraduate students and contributing to the strategic direction of a dynamic research program.

Overtime Status Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type Restricted

Salary Information 53,550-65,029

Hours per week 40

Review Date 02/20/2026

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