Postdoctoral Associate

Job Description

Cross Laminated Timber/Wood Materials Research

The department of Sustainable Biomaterials has over a decade of history in the cross-laminated-timber (CLT) research and application. Virginia Tech researchers have developed a CLT structural analysis methodologies, predicted strength properties for new species and configurations, in addition to investigating the use of hardwood in CLT manufacture. We continue to push innovation for CLT and wood materials through research, education and outreach. 

We seek a highly motivated and collaborative researcher with expertise in wood science, sustainable materials, or engineering to contribute to our ongoing research on improving the hygrothermal performance, structural modeling, and durability of CLT, including hybrid and thermally modified wood systems.

The individual will be responsible for:
• Develop and implement models for the structural and mechanical performance and optimization of mass timber systems, using data-driven approaches or, preferably, scientific machine learning (SciML).
• Conducting research related to the improvement of the hygrothermal properties of cross-laminated timber.
Desing and perform testing and analysis crate elements
• Design and perform long-term laboratory testing on thermally modified wood CLT assemblies with various protective coatings.
• Collect, process, and analyze experimental data; prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Draft and submit research proposals for external funding.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at national and international conferences.
• Limited teaching or outreach responsibilities may be assigned depending on interest and departmental needs.
• Participate in departmental and collaborative research initiatives.
• Given the nature of this work, this position is not eligible for telework.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Sustainable biomaterials, wood science, engineering 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.
• Demonstrated experience in wood property testing, mass timber research and wood adhesion studies.
• Proven record of publishing refereed journal articles and presenting at professional conferences.
• Strong understanding of wood physics and experience in developing physics-informed models related to hygrothermal or moisture diffusion processes.
• Experience with experimental design, data collection, and analysis.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lift or carry 50lbs, 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

• Skills in modeling and simulation, preferably using scientific machine learning (SciML) or related computational approaches, with emphasis on physics-informed or mechanics-informed modeling.
• Experience with the manufacture of and testing of thermally modified wood properties

 

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Commensurate with experience

Hours per week

40

Review Date

November 10, 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 di