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Communication Postdoc Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536028 Work type: Research Faculty ... using communication signals, and advanced signal processing and estimation techniques for ...

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 537411 Work type: Research Faculty ... Preferred Qualifications Strong scientific writing skills and ability to communicate research ...

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536240 Work type: Research Faculty ... Excellent communication skills. Preferred Qualifications Demonstrated record of excellence in ...

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Communication Postdoc information

What is a communication postdoc?

A Communication Postdoc is a researcher who has completed their doctoral studies and is conducting advanced research in the field of communication, often at a university or research institute. Their work may focus on areas such as media studies, interpersonal communication, digital communication, or organizational communication. Postdoctoral positions are typically temporary, lasting one to three years, and are designed to help scholars deepen their expertise, publish research, and gain experience before pursuing permanent academic or industry positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a communication postdoc?

To thrive as a Communication Postdoc, you typically need a PhD in communication or a related field, strong research skills, and a solid publication record. Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research tools, statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or NVivo), and academic publishing platforms is often expected. Exceptional written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills help distinguish top candidates. These competencies are crucial for advancing research, publishing impactful work, and contributing effectively to academic teams and projects.

What are some common challenges communication postdocs face when transitioning from doctoral studies to postdoctoral research roles?

Communication Postdocs often encounter challenges such as adapting to increased research independence, managing multiple projects simultaneously, and balancing publishing expectations with teaching or mentoring responsibilities. Additionally, they may need to quickly integrate into new research teams and navigate institutional cultures different from their graduate experiences. Developing effective collaboration and time management skills is crucial for success and for building a strong professional network in this stage of their career.

What is the difference between Communication Postdoc vs Communication Specialist?

AspectCommunication PostdocCommunication Specialist
Required CredentialsPhD in Communication or related fieldBachelor's or Master's degree in Communication or related field
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutionsCorporate, nonprofit, or media organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research centersBusinesses, government agencies, media outlets
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between a Communication Postdoc and a Communication Specialist lies in their work environment and credentials. A Communication Postdoc typically holds a PhD and works in academic or research settings, focusing on advancing communication theories and research. In contrast, a Communication Specialist usually has a bachelor's or master's degree and works in corporate or media environments, applying communication strategies to support organizational goals.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Communication Postdoc jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Communication Postdoc job openings:

Infographic showing various Communication Postdoc job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 85% In-person, and 15% Hybrid job distribution.

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

Virginia Tech
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Virginia Tech rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

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Job description

Postdoctoral Associate

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536028
Work type: Research Faculty
Senior management: College of Engineering
Department: Electrical and ComputerEngineering
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Engineering, Research / Scientific

Job Description

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Associate position within Wireless@Virginia Tech (https://wireless.vt.edu/) in the Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Virginia Tech. The position focuses on conducting experimental and theoretical research in positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT), with particular emphasis on signal processing and receiver design using signals of opportunity, especially those originating from low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite systems.
The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing research efforts in areas including LEO-based PNT, opportunistic navigation using communication signals, and advanced signal processing and estimation techniques for localization and timing. The postdoctoral associate will work closely with faculty, graduate students, and external collaborators, and is expected to contribute to technical proposal development, research and development activities, and the publication of results in high-impact journals and conferences.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Computer Science, 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.
Background in PNT, wireless localization, or related areas.
Strong foundation in signal processing, including estimation and detection theory, and wireless communications.
Experience with or strong interest in receiver design, signals of opportunity, and/or LEO satellite or communication-based systems.
Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary team environments.
Record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and conferences.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with RF experimentation or wireless testbeds.
Experience contributing to research proposals.
Prior experience mentoring graduate or undergraduate students.
Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, and/or C++ for wireless system simulation, algorithm development, or experimental validation.

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

$65,000 - $75,000, commensurate with experience

Hours per week

40

Review Date

May 4, 2026

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 Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 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 Cole Tankersley at cpt19@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: April 9, 2026
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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