2026 PhD Graduate - Cyber Researcher - Capabilities Development

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, MD seeks a PhD-level cyber research engineer to explore cutting-edge techniques and develop mission‑critical cyber capabilities in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team.

You will work with sponsors and end users to translate operational needs into robust software and analytics, pursue innovative research areas, and aim for TS/SCI eligibility while supporting government missions.

Qualifications

• PhD in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or a cybersecurity-related field.
• Experience developing software using Java/Kotlin, Python, C#, Rust, Go, JavaScript/TypeScript, C/C++, or equivalent.
• Experience developing concepts, systems, or analytics with an understanding of systems engineering or operational planning.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication, good organizational skills, and ability to work in teams.
• Ability to obtain an Interim Secret clearance by the start date and ultimately obtain a Top Secret clearance (U.S. citizenship required).

Responsibilities

• Explore cutting‑edge techniques for developing cyber capabilities
• Develop novel approaches to solving critical cybersecurity challenges in operational environments
• Work with sponsors and end users in defense or intelligence organizations to understand their operational needs and identify requirements
• Build mission‑aligned capabilities
• Explore promising new research areas and seek ways to apply ideas to today’s problems
• Integrate and extend open source or commercial capabilities to enhance cyber capability
• Share approaches and methods with teammates, APL management, and government decision makers

Skills

Java/Kotlin

Python

C#

Rust

Go

JavaScript/TypeScript

C/C++

Systems engineering

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

PhD in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or cybersecurity-related field

Tools

React

Vue.js

HTML5

CSS3

JSON/XML

jQuery

D3

SVG

RESTful web services

SQL/NoSQL

Job description

Are you passionate about research, discovery, and exploring better ways to do things? Do you want the chance to push the boundaries of cyber defense? Are you excited about working with others to solve some of the nation’s toughest cyber challenges? If so, we want you to join our team at APL’s Capabilities Development Group (QCC)! We work as a multi‑disciplinary team of systems, cybersecurity, and software engineers who enable mission resilience by developing novel tools. We leverage the latest threat intelligence along with cutting‑edge cybersecurity trends, techniques, and technologies to achieve an operational advantage for our sponsors.

Responsibilities

• Explore cutting‐edge techniques for developing cyber capabilities
• Develop novel approaches to solving critical cybersecurity challenges in operational environments
• Work with sponsors and end users in defense or intelligence organizations to understand their operational needs and identify requirements
• Build mission‑aligned capabilities
• Explore promising new research areas and seek ways to apply ideas to today’s problems
• Integrate and extend open source or commercial capabilities to enhance cyber capability
• Share approaches and methods with teammates, APL management, and government decision makers

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or a cybersecurity‑related field
• Experience developing software using Java/Kotlin, Python, C#, Rust, Go, JavaScript/TypeScript, C/C++, or equivalent
• Experience developing concepts, systems, or analytics with an understanding of systems engineering or operational planning
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication, good organizational skills, and ability to work in teams
• Ability to obtain an Interim Secret clearance by the start date and ultimately obtain a Top Secret clearance (U.S. citizenship required)

Exceptional Qualifications

• Experience with web application frameworks and related technologies such as React, Vue.js, HTML5, CSS3, JSON/XML, jQuery, D3, SVG, RESTful web services, or SQL/NoSQL
• Ability to apply software development skills to different domains and subject matters
• Knowledge of AI/ML, Agentic AI, and/or AI‑enabled cyber methodologies
• Experience in DevSecOps, network security, and systems integration
• Experience with Department of Defense and/or Intelligence Community cyber operations or mission forces
• Experience conducting research, development, and testing of cyber capabilities
• Experience developing documents that define processes, solutions, requirements, and specifications for government agencies and public organizations
• Hold an active Secret or Top Secret clearance and can ultimately obtain TS/SCI clearance

About 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 diverse perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, a robust education assistance program, retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore‑Washington metro area. 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. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact [e-mail].

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Minimum rate: $105,000 annually. Maximum rate: $245,000 annually.