Postdoctoral Associate - Paper Coating with Bioplastics for Food Packaging Applications

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experimental research on paper-based materials for food packaging applications.
• Develop predictive models for packaging performance using machine learning and physicochemical modeling approaches.
• Investigate interactions between food products and paper-based packaging materials across diverse product categories.
• Collect, process, and analyze experimental data, including antimicrobial testing; prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Collaborate with industry partners on applied research and technology transfer initiatives, including workshops and distribution of design tools.
• Mentor graduate students in research methods and laboratory procedures.
• Assist in developing competitive grant proposals for external funding from agencies such as NSF and USDA NIFA.
• Participate in limited teaching or outreach activities as assigned.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Packaging Science, Food Science, Chemical Engineering, Paper Science, Wood Science, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering, 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.
• Strong background in computational modeling, AI-assisted modeling, microbial testing, or paper chemistry and structural evaluation.
• Experience with fiber-based packaging for consumer products, including specialty crops.
• Demonstrated record of publishing refereed journal articles and presenting at professional conferences.
• Strong understanding of experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment.
• Excellent technical writing, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to perform tasks requiring substantial walking, standing, stooping, and bending; must use appropriate personal protective equipment.

Qualifications

• Experience in food packaging applications utilizing fiber-based packaging systems.
• Background in food science, materials science, or chemical engineering.
• Familiarity with statistical evaluation methods.
• Familiarity with AI technologies.
• Knowledge of packaging performance testing standards.
• Experience with fiber material properties, orthotropic material modeling, or joint behavior under cyclic loading.