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Postdoctoral Nanoscience Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Morris lab has both femto- and nano-second transient absorption spectroscopy and nanosecond ... Postdoc. - Demonstrated experience in pulsed laser spectroscopy - Strong work habits and the ...

Postdoctoral Nanoscience information

What is a postdoctoral nanoscientist?

A Postdoctoral Nanoscientist is a researcher who has completed their doctoral studies and works on advanced research projects in the field of nanoscience. This role involves investigating materials and phenomena at the nanoscale, often aiming to develop new technologies or improve existing ones. Postdoctoral nanoscientists typically work in academic, government, or industrial labs, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to advance scientific knowledge. Their work may involve conducting experiments, publishing papers, and mentoring students.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a postdoctoral nanoscience researcher?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Nanoscience researcher, you need a PhD in a relevant field (such as physics, chemistry, or materials science) and a strong background in nanoscale materials and characterization techniques. Familiarity with advanced instrumentation (e.g., electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy) and experience using data analysis software are typically required. Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills help you drive innovative research and communicate findings effectively. These competencies are crucial for producing high-impact research, securing funding, and advancing scientific knowledge in nanoscience.

What are some common challenges faced by postdoctoral nanoscience researchers, and how can they be effectively managed?

Postdoctoral researchers in nanoscience often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving research technologies, balancing independent projects with collaborative work, and delivering publishable results within limited contract periods. Managing these challenges involves staying updated on the latest advancements, actively seeking mentorship, and maintaining open communication with principal investigators and team members. Developing strong project management skills and networking within the scientific community can also help maximize research impact and career opportunities.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Nanoscience vs Postdoctoral Materials Science?

AspectPostdoctoral NanosciencePostdoctoral Materials Science
Required credentialsPhD in Nanoscience, Physics, Chemistry, or related fieldsPhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or related fields
Work environmentResearch labs focusing on nanoscale materials and devicesResearch labs working on material properties and applications
Industry usageAcademic, government, and industry research in nanotechAcademic, government, and industry research in materials development
Search intentCompare roles, skills, and research focusCompare research areas, skills, and career paths

Postdoctoral Nanoscience and Postdoctoral Materials Science share similar credentials and research environments, but focus on different aspects of materials at the nanoscale versus bulk materials. Both roles are common in academia and industry, with overlapping skills but distinct research focuses.

What are popular job titles related to Postdoctoral Nanoscience jobs in Virginia?

For Postdoctoral Nanoscience jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Postdoctoral Nanoscience jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Postdoctoral Nanoscience job openings:

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA • On-site


Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
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Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Postdoctoral Associate
Job no: 536966
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 Amanda Morris research group. The position will heavily use laser spectroscopy to understand light-matter interactions. The Morris lab has both femto- and nano-second transient absorption spectroscopy and nanosecond transient infrared spectroscopy capabilities. The research centers on the application of these techniques to metal organic framework materials. Therefore, the synthesis of MOFs and preparation of suitable spectroscopic samples is required of the incumbent. Characterization techniques such as fluorescence spectroscopy, TCSPC, NMR, ATR-IR, PXRD, and surface area analysis will also be components of the work.
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in chemistry or appropriate related field (awarded prior to being appointed). The PhD must be awarded no more than four years prior to the appointment effective date so that the candidate has the VT required minimum of one year eligibility as a VT Postdoc.
- Demonstrated experience in pulsed laser spectroscopy
- Strong work habits and the ability to work independently as well as with a research group
- Strong written and oral communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Publication record that shows the ability to communicate scientific contributions through the literature
- Evidence of oral scientific communication skills (i.e., presentations at conferences).
Overtime Status
Exempt: Not eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
55,000
Hours per week
40 - exempt position
Review Date
7/24/26
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: July 13, 2026
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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.

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Blacksburg, VA, US

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1872

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