Postdoctoral Associate

Job Description

Dr. Zhiwu (Drew) Wang’s research team at Virginia Tech invites applications from highly motivated candidates specializing in environmental engineering, specifically focused on PFAS treatment, analysis and remediation 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. The initial appointment will be for one year with the possibility of extension based on performance.

Required Qualifications

- Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biological Systems Engineering, or a related field, with an interdisciplinary foundation in chemistry. Ph.D. 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 PFAS treatment technologies, including adsorptive removal, oxidative degradation, and thermal destruction, supported by laboratory and/or pilot-scale investigations.
- Strong analytical skills and extensive experience with advanced mass spectrometry platforms for identification and quantification of environmental contaminants.
- Established publication record with high-quality peer-reviewed articles (e.g., Environmental Science & Technology, Water Research); demonstrated skills in scientific writing, manuscript preparation, and research reporting.

Preferred Qualifications

- Documented experience in grant writing and research project leadership, including successful funding as PI and active involvement as co-PI in interdisciplinary collaborations.
- Ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary research teams and mentor junior researchers in laboratory methods, data analysis, and academic writing.
- Strong collaboration and communication skills, with a track record of working across disciplinary boundaries.
- Interest in mentoring graduate 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

07/18/2025

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.

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