2026 PhD Graduate - Data Scientist / Computer Scientist - Decision Systems

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 leading research institution in Laurel, MD, is seeking a skilled professional to design decision support systems. Candidates must have a terminal degree in a relevant field and proficiency in programming. This role involves collaboration and innovation in data-driven solutions. The ideal candidate will also have strong communication skills and the ability to obtain a security clearance. Competitive salary and benefits package, including education assistance.

Qualifications

• Possess a terminal degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, or related field.
• Proficient in at least one programming language commonly used in data science.
• Able to obtain Interim Secret clearance.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop high-performance decision support systems.
• Collaborate with partners to translate system concepts into action plans.
• Develop proof of concept prototypes for new technologies.

Skills

Proficiency in a programming language

Outstanding written and oral communication skills

Organizational skills

Relationship building

Education

Terminal degree (PhD/DEng) in relevant field

Job description

Overview

Are you looking for an engaging and impactful career building on the foundations of your academic work?

Do you want to build data-driven solutions that offer the explainability vital to decision making?

Would you like to be a part of an engaging interdisciplinary intellectual community?

If so, consider joining us in the Decision Systems Group (QAX) as we work to enhance the safety and security of the nation through "Critical Contributions to Critical Challenges". We are advancing analytic methods and developing integrated software systems empowering informed decision making. We are working to advance the forefront of national and health security.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop high-performance, scalable, and resilient decision support systems.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners to understand and translate system concepts into plans of action.
• Develop proof of concept prototypes to explore new technologies in the context of our sponsor's missions.
• Engage in research and analysis to move our approaches from a reactive to a proactive posture.

Qualifications

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

• Possess a terminal degree (e.g., PhD, DEng) in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a similar field
• Are proficient in at least one programming language commonly used in data science and/or full-stack development (e.g., Python, Java, JavaScript)
• Possess outstanding written and oral communication skills, organizational skills, and a penchant for relationship building
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret clearance to start and a final Secret level security 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 prior experience as a researcher or practitioner in any of the following areas: Generative AI, Deep Learning, Optimization, Natural Language Processing, Operations Research, Supply Chain Analysis, Software Engineering, Data Visualization, Data Engineering, DevOps / MLOps, Public Health Surveillance, or Health Informatics.
• Have a record of communicating analyses of real-world data sets to audiences with broadly varying technical backgrounds.

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

Minimum Rate: $102,500 Annually

Maximum Rate: $227,500 Annually

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.