2026 PhD Graduate

Description
Are you interested in changing science fiction into reality for our national security in space?

Are you passionate about learning about the latest technologies or algorithms and finding new ways to use them?

Do you want to work with brilliant colleagues on challenging problems while still having work-life balance?

If so, we're looking for someone like you on our team at APL

If you are graduating with a PhD in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computational Sciences or a related technical field, we'd love to have you join our team

We are seeking a driven engineer, mathematician, or scientist to help us continue designing, developing and assessing the various space technologies and algorithms. You'll be joining a hardworking team who balances independent work and team work on a variety of space-based projects. Our group maintains proficiencies in photonics, signatures, advanced technology applications, orbital engagements, space control concept assessment, autonomous operations, and multi-disciplinary optimization.

As a member of the APL team, your duties could include:

• Researching, designing, developing, and testing space components
• Characterizing the performance of current, proposed and future space systems, sensors (EO/IR, radar, etc.) and constellations.
• Developing algorithms to improve and assess performance of space systems.

Our staff come from a set of technical backgrounds and heavily leverage programming skills (e.g. C, C++, Matlab, Python) and modeling skills (e.g. Systems Tool Kit, Astrogator, PTC Creo). We also run a photonics lab where we develop sensor hardware for spacecraft payloads. We hire from many disciplines including engineering, physics, astronomy, applied mathematics, and computer science.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Have a PhD in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computational Sciences or a related technical field
• Are an expert in an area of research that can be applied to technologies or algorithms related to space control applications
• Are willing and able to occasionally travel to sponsor locations
• Are able to obtain Interim Top Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain TS/SCI 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 experience adapting new technologies or algorithms to space-based applications
• Have prior work experience in the space industry
• Have an active TS/SCI clearance.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

$102,500 Annually

Maximum Rate

$227,500 Annually