2026 PhD Graduate - AI/ML Data Scientist/Engineer - Analytic Capabilities

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 105,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a highly qualified PhD candidate to tackle challenging research, engineering, and analytical problems essential to national security. You will help design and develop scalable software systems that leverage data science, LLMs, and AI across diverse domains.

You will collaborate with expert colleagues on projects spanning AI, ML, data science, software engineering, DevOps, and image processing, applying your skills to national

Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or related technical field.
• Ability to acquire Interim Secret/Top Secret clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with colleagues to deliver solutions aligned with national priorities.
• Apply AI/ML, Data Science, Software Engineering, DevOps, Signal & Image Processing, and Mathematics in projects.

Skills

UI frameworks

Programming languages

LLM engineering

Education

PhD in CS/Math/Engineering

Job description

Are you searching for a place to build upon the foundation of your academic work?

Would you like to find engaging work with an employer that prioritizes impact, innovation, and personal development?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

If you are graduating with a PhD in computer science, mathematics, engineering or a related field, we are looking for someone like you to assist us in tackling complex research, engineering, and analytical challenges that are critical to our nation. To address these emerging national challenges, we design and develop scalable software systems that leverage data science, visualization, large language models, and artificial intelligence across various domains, including social media analysis, healthcare, cybersecurity, and signal & image processing.

As a member of our team you will…

• Collaborate with dedicated colleagues in developing solutions that align with national priorities.
• Dive into exciting projects and apply your skills in areas like Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, Software Engineering, DevOps, Signal and Image Processing, and Mathematics.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you…

• Have a PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or related technical field
• Are able to acquire an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately acquire a 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 experience with modern UI frameworks such as react, vue, or angular
• Have experience with Python, Java, or Javascript
• Have experience with LLM engineering such as prompt design, retrieval‑augmented generation (RAG), or agentic frameworks

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 https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

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 [e-mail].

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.

$105,000 Annually

$245,000 Annually