1

Metals Postdoc Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The postdoctoral associate will play a central role in the processing, analysis, and interpretation of X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS) data collected on metal-modified zeolite catalysts under ...

Postdoctoral Associate Apply now Back to search results Job no: 535860 Work type: Research Faculty ... metal complexes. The project will involve the reaction development, mechanistic studies, and ...

Metals Postdoc information

What is a Metals Postdoc?

A Metals Postdoc is a researcher who has completed their doctoral degree and is engaged in advanced research related to metals, such as their properties, processing, and applications. These postdoctoral positions are typically temporary and are found in universities, research institutes, or industry labs. Metals Postdocs often work on projects involving metallurgy, materials science, alloy development, or characterization techniques. The goal is to deepen expertise, contribute to scientific knowledge, and prepare for a career in academia or industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Metals Postdoc, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metals Postdoc, you need a PhD in materials science, metallurgy, or a related field with a deep understanding of metal properties and characterization techniques. Proficiency in analytical tools such as electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and computational modeling software is typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork abilities help in collaborating across multidisciplinary research teams and presenting findings. These skills are crucial for advancing scientific knowledge, publishing impactful research, and contributing effectively to innovative projects in the field of metals.

What is the difference between Metals Postdoc vs Materials Scientist?

AspectMetals PostdocMaterials Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Materials Science, Metallurgy, or related fieldMaster's or PhD in Materials Science, Metallurgy, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch laboratories, academic institutions, industry R&DResearch and development, manufacturing, academia, industry
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government labs, industry research centersManufacturers, research institutions, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in metals and materialsExploring career paths in materials research and development

Metals Postdocs focus on advanced research in metals, often within academic or government labs, requiring a PhD. Materials Scientists have broader roles in industry or academia, working on developing and testing materials, with educational requirements ranging from a master's to a PhD. Both roles involve research but differ in scope and application.

What are some common challenges faced by Metals Postdocs in academic research settings?

Metals Postdocs often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple research projects with tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly evolving experimental techniques, and securing funding or resources for specialized equipment. Collaboration is key, as postdocs frequently work with interdisciplinary teams including chemists, physicists, and engineers. Navigating publication pressures and building a professional network are also crucial for career advancement, making time management and communication skills essential in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Metals Postdoc jobs in Virginia? For Metals Postdoc jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Metals Postdoc jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Metals Postdoc job openings:
Postdoctoral Associate

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

201st of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Postdoctoral Associate
Job no: 535860
Work type: Research Faculty
Senior management: College of Science
Department: Chemistry
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Research / Scientific
Job Description
A Postdoctoral Associate position is available within the Ming Chen research group. The position will be focused on the development of asymmetric transformations catalyzed by transition-metal complexes. The project will involve the reaction development, mechanistic studies, and synthetic applications. The postdoctoral associate will perform parallel reaction condition screening, and use advanced analytical techniques on product identification.
Required Qualifications
- Recent Ph.D. in organic synthesis, asymmetric catalysis or an appropriate related field.
- Experience in reaction development and ligand synthesis.
- Strong work habits and the ability to work both independently and as part of a research team.
- Strong communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- First author research publications.
- Strong experience in asymmetric catalysis.
- Presentations at conferences and/or other instances of communicating research work.
Overtime Status
Exempt: Not eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
Commensurate with experience
Hours per week
40 hours - exempt position
Review Date
04/15/26
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 Leslie Cherry-Marshall at lmcherry@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
Advertised: April 1, 2026
Applications close:
Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App

What Virginia Tech employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Virginia Tech logo

About Virginia Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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

Social media