The Department of Sustainable Biomaterials (SBIO) at Virginia Tech invites applications for an Extension Specialist in Sustainable Biomaterial Marketing. The department's program focuses on developing future leaders in the sustainable utilization of forest-based and other renewable natural materials. Virginia's forest-based industry is a key stakeholder group, generating over $23 billion annually and employing more than 109,000 people. SBIO faculty with extension appointments have continually supported the Commonwealth's forest products industry. We welcome applications from persons identifying with groups underrepresented within our discipline, including but not limited to Black, Indigenous, people of color, first generation, and underrepresented genders.

We seek dynamic candidates to build a program focused on existing and emerging biomaterial products, markets, and opportunities, with a strong focus on the state's forest products business sector. Candidates should have expertise in areas such as renewable material markets, biomaterial trade analysis, biomaterial business development and support, business adaptation to market changes, identifying industry needs, providing advanced knowledge of changing markets, new product development, providing focused support for businesses, and connecting students with industry and other stakeholders.

The successful candidate will advance the outreach and engagement mission of the department and the Land Grant system by providing readily available, research-based programs and educational resources to improve the lives of individuals, families, businesses, and communities.

The focus of the program may include the following areas:

• Analyze biobased materials and energy markets
• Assess the policy impact on market conditions
• Assist stakeholders with analyzing and developing potential markets
• Identify industry needs and advance knowledge as product markets develop
• Support renewable materials businesses
• Develop sustainable business strategies
• Support business plan development
• Assist with new product development
• Assist with analysis and development of export markets
• Program evaluation and impact

The position is a tenure-track, 9-month appointment with primary responsibilities in extension (70%) and research (30%). The successful candidate will develop an impactful extension program and will develop an applied research program that supports their extension program(s). Advising and mentoring of graduate students is required. Participation in departmental, college, and university affairs is expected.