2026 PhD Graduate - Next Gen Image Processing/Sensing

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

Benefits offered by this job

Education assistance

Retirement contributions

Work–life balance

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, MD seeks a PhD physicist, mathematician or engineer to develop algorithms and assess the performance of the next generation of RF sensor systems for land, air, and sea-launched interceptors.

You will derive requirements, perform trade studies, build high-fidelity simulations of sensors and environments, and collaborate with sponsors and multidisciplinary teams to tackle vital missile defense challenges.

Qualifications

• PhD in electrical engineering, applied math, physics, computer science, or a related field.
• Experience simulating or analyzing infrared or visible signals, environments or sensors.
• Proficient in MATLAB, C++, or Python.
• Strong written and oral presentation skills.
• Willing to travel up to 15%.
• U.S. citizenship; ability to obtain Secret clearance (and potentially Top Secret).

Responsibilities

• Derive requirements, perform trade studies, and analyze performance of advanced sensor systems.
• Develop, implement, test and verify high-fidelity, physics-based simulations of sensors and environments.
• Collaborate with sponsors and contractors; work with multidisciplinary teams on missile defense problems.

Skills

Written and oral presentation skills

Secret clearance eligibility

Education

PhD in electrical engineering, applied math, physics, computer science, or a related field

Tools

MATLAB

C++

Python

Job description

Opening

Do you love solving crucial, real-world problems related to sensor systems?

Are you a curious and active learner who just want to know why?

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

Job Overview

We are seeking a PhD physicist, mathematician or engineer to help us develop algorithms and assess the performance of the next generation of radio frequency sensor systems for land, air, and sea-launched interceptors. You'll influence the development of powerful sensor algorithms. Dedicated teams have opportunities to tackle vital missile defense challenges. We strive to cultivate an environment of creativity and collaboration and value finding sophisticated solutions to hard problems.

Key Responsibilities

• Your primary responsibility will be to derive requirements, perform trade studies, and analyze the performance of advanced sensor systems.
• You will develop, implement, test and verify high‑fidelity, physics‑based simulations of sensors and environments.
• You will act as APL's representative with sponsors and contractors and will collaborate with multidisciplined teams to solve difficult problems in air and missile defense.

Minimum Qualifications

• Possess a PhD in electrical engineering, applied math, physics, computer science, or a related field.
• Are knowledgeable or have research in one or more of the following: simulating or analyzing infrared or visible signals, environments or sensors.
• Are proficient in one or more of the following programming languages: MATLAB, C++, or Python.
• Have practiced written and oral presentation skills.
• Have the willingness to travel up to 15% of the time as needed.
• Are able to obtain a Secret clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain clearance beyond Top Secret. 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• Have experience with imaging seekers or missile systems.

Compensation

Minimum Rate: $105,000 Annually

Maximum Rate: $245,000 Annually

Benefits

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. 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.

EEO Statement

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].