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

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 102,500 - 227,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Robust education assistance program

Unparalleled retirement contributions

Healthy work/life balance

Job summary

A premier research laboratory in Maryland is seeking a highly motivated researcher specializing in AI/ML algorithms. You will engage in the development process, presenting evaluations and interacting with large datasets. The ideal candidate holds a PhD in a relevant field and has experience in machine learning, Python or MATLAB. This position offers a competitive salary range of $102,500 to $227,500 annually and generous benefits.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics or related field.
• 2+ years in machine learning or data science.
• Fluency in Python or MATLAB.
• Timely management of projects and effective communication skills.
• Ability to obtain security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Research, implement, prototype, and analyze algorithms.
• Interact with large data sets for algorithm training/testing.
• Prepare and present technical evaluations of algorithms.
• Engage with external sponsors on technical solutions.
• Subject matter expert in information fusion or AI.

Skills

Machine Learning

Data Science

Python

MATLAB

Algorithm Design

Education

PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics

Tools

scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Job description

Overview

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

• 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 frameworks in Python.
• Have experience using high-performance computing structures like GPUs and CPU clusters.
• Will ingness to travel up to 10% of the time, as needed, and hold an active Secret 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. 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 http://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

$102,500 Annually

Maximum Rate

$227,500 Annually