Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab

2026 PhD Graduate - Applied Algorithms Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab$105K — $245K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • PhD candidate in Math, Computer Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related fields.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
  • Familiarity with probabilistic algorithms and numerical methods.
  • Proficient in MATLAB, C++, Python, or similar programming languages.
  • Self-motivated with a passion for data-driven insights and system performance understanding.
  • Team-oriented with excellent collaboration skills across diverse teams.
  • U.S. citizenship required for security clearance eligibility.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct advanced research and development for U.S. Missile Defense systems.
  • Assist in the development, testing, and analysis of new concepts for engagement and fire control.
  • Implement algorithms and design system modeling and simulation components.
  • Develop AI/ML concepts and technical solutions to address complex challenges.
  • Apply data fusion and tracking concepts for object tracking and discrimination.
  • Analyze simulation outputs and communicate insights to stakeholders.
  • Deliver presentations to technical staff and government sponsors.

Benefits

  • Relocation support to Huntsville, AL if necessary.
  • Opportunity to work in cutting-edge missile defense technologies.
  • Collaboration with a dedicated team of engineers and scientists.
  • Access to advanced research resources and tools.
  • Potential for career advancement in defense and technology sectors.
Full Job Description
We are seeking innovative and highly talented PhD Graduate candidates to join our group, which specializes in advanced research and program of record activities for rapid capability advancements. In particular, you will conduct systems analysis, identify gaps, and develop novel concepts to revolutionize defensive capabilities for the U.S.A. You will apply math, engineering, computer science, and physics knowledge to implement new distributed algorithms, advanced Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) techniques, object tracking and discrimination, data fusion concepts, etc. in support of a wide variety of defense systems. You will be joining a hardworking team of engineers and scientists who are passionate about developing high-impact solutions at the forefront of APL's mission to provide innovative solutions to critical challenges in the area of missile defense. As a member of our team... - You will be located at the Sponsor site in Huntsville, AL with reach back to the technical team in Laurel, MD - You will conduct research and development activities related to U.S. Missile Defense systems. - You will assist in the development, testing, and analysis of new concepts related to sensing, engagement, and fire control. - You will implement algorithms and design modeling and simulation components of systems. - You will develop AI/ML-based concepts and technical solutions to solve challenging problems. - You will apply novel data fusion and tracking concepts for object tracking and discrimination applications. - You will analyze simulation outputs and translate results into clear insights for the research sponsor. - You will deliver presentations to technical staff, program leadership, and government sponsors. - You will develop prototype capabilities and work with partner organizations to transition ideas to fielded systems. Qualifications You meet the minimum requirements for the job if you... - Possess or will soon be a PhD in Math, Computer Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related field. - Are detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. - Have familiarity with probabilistic algorithms and numerical methods - Have programming experience with MATLAB, C++, Python, or other high-level programming languages. - Are highly self-motivated to dig into data to root cause issues and to understand system performance. - Have the ability to work both independently and as part of a larger team, as well as effective collaboration skills with other teams and contractors. - Are able to obtain an Interim Top Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain Top Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you... - Have knowledge, experience and interest in working with AI/ML technologies and MLOps practices. - Have domain knowledge of Navy, Missile Defense Agency, Space Force, or Air Force systems. Minimum Rate $105,000 Annually Maximum Rate $245,000 Annually

About Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is a research and development organization that provides solutions to national security and scientific challenges. The laboratory was founded in 1942 and is located in Laurel, Maryland. APL is a division of the Johns Hopkins University and is a not-for-profit organization. The laboratory has expertise in a variety of areas, including space exploration, national security, and healthcare.
Learn more about Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab
Size
7,000 employees
Industry
Founded
1942

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