2026 PhD Graduate - Algorithm Researcher - Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Infor[...]

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

Benefits offered by this job

Restaurant discount

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, MD, is seeking a highly motivated researcher to contribute to AI/ML and data fusion initiatives within the Information Fusion and Artificial Intelligence group. You will join a team of engineers and scientists tackling DoD challenges with innovative algorithms and rigorous evaluation.

Ideal candidates hold a PhD in a related field, have 2+ years in ML or data science, and can prototype, test, and present technical analyses.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics or related field.
• 2+ years in ML and data science or strong coursework in related areas (linear algebra, calculus, stochastic processes, etc.).
• Fluent in Python or MATLAB with ability to translate concepts into code.
• Excellent time-management and communication of ideas/results.
• Eligibility for Interim Secret, then Secret clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Research, implement, prototype, and analyze algorithms; document performance and robustness.
• Interact with large, diverse data sets for training and testing; Data cleaning and preprocessing as needed.
• Prepare and present technical evaluations to decision-makers and peers.
• Interact with sponsors to discuss solutions and influence decisions.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in information fusion or AI.

Skills

Python

MATLAB

Time management

Communication

Education

PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics or related field

Tools

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Git

Job description

Do you have experience developing AI/ML algorithms OR a graduate-level research background in data fusion and/or distributed control?

Do you thrive in a research environment, working alongside an energetic team of scientists and engineers?

Are you ready to help the US secure and maintain leadership in the development and fielding of algorithms for defense systems?

If you are graduating with a PhD degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics or a related field, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

We are seeking a highly motivated researcher who will contribute to all phases of the development process. You will be joining a team of engineers and scientists who are at the forefront of APL's mission to provide innovative solutions to critical challenges. Accurate, timely, and actionable information derived from a variety of sources provides the warfighter advantages over its adversaries. Our group at APL identifies, develops, and applies efficient and effective algorithms to support critical capabilities for a variety of DoD missions.

Duties

As a member of the Information Fusion and Artificial Intelligence group you will …

• Research, implement, prototype, and analyze algorithms, quantify and document the performance capabilities and limitations of algorithms for specific tasks, and provide metrics of robustness and confidence in specific approaches.
• Interact with large data sets of various types, formats, and structures for algorithm training and testing, data cleaning, pre‑processing, normalization, or manipulation as needed.
• Prepare and present technical evaluations of algorithms to a broad audience that includes both decision makers as well as technical peers.
• Interact with external sponsors to discuss technical solutions and influence decision‑makers.
• Serve as an internally recognized subject matter expert in one or more technical areas related to information fusion OR Artificial Intelligence.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you …

• Have a PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics or related field.
• Have 2+ years of experience in the machine learning and data science fields; OR completed and have a strong interest in linear algebra, calculus, stochastic processes, detection and estimation theory, information theory, or related coursework.
• Are fluent in Python or MATLAB, with the ability to translate mathematical concepts into well‑documented and efficient code.
• Have excellent time‑management skills and can effectively communicate ideas and results.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain 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 4+ years of experience in designing and implementing algorithms involving one or more of the following: classification, clustering, deep learning, decision making, AI explainability, stochastic processes, detection and estimation theory, information theory, Bayesian inference of time‑varying systems, tracking and data fusion (e.g., KF, MHT, IMM, etc.).
• Have demonstrated experience in working with version control software like Git.
• Have experience developing AI/ML research prototypes in code, using one or more of scikit‑learn, Tensorflow, PyTorch, or similar machine learning frameworks in Python.
• Have experience using high‑performance computing structures like GPUs and CPU clusters.
• Willingness to travel up to 10% of the time, as needed, and hold an active Secret clearance.

About Us

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.

Minimum Rate

$105,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually