Postdoctoral Associate

School of Plant & Environmental Sciences, Virginia Tech

The successful candidate will conduct research to develop a new set of procedures to specify and analyze BSM for use in Department of Transportation installations. The successful individual will: review existing practices, protocols, and regulations; generate a summary of needs in characterization and composition of bioretention soil media; determine appropriate sample preparation techniques (e.g., bulk density) based on in-field sampling of media from existing bioretention infrastructure;

and provide recommendations on revised bioretention soil media specifications and testing procedures. The incumbent will lead the design, execution, analysis, and publication of this research. A strong background in the collection and analysis of soil samples and measurements of soil properties, including hydraulic conductivity, is preferred. Additional opportunities will be available to engage with ongoing projects focused on soil health and sustainable water management in urban settings.

• PhD in environmental sciences, soil sciences, civil and environmental engineering, or a closely related field awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.
• An academic record of excellence with proficiency in written expression.

• Field and laboratory experience, especially with the collection and analysis of soil samples and measurements of soil properties, including hydraulic conductivity.

Exempt:
Not eligible for overtime

Restricted

53,

40

05/10/2026

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

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 Dr. Ryan Stewart at sryan3 during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.