2026 PhD Graduate - Statistics and Data Science

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

Benefits offered by this job

Vibrant culture

Commitment to diversity and inclusion

Support for personal growth

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab in Laurel, Maryland, is looking for a new PhD graduate in Statistics, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or related field. This role involves supporting multi-disciplinary teams in quantitative analysis for defense applications. The position requires expertise in statistical modeling and experience with programming tools like Python or R. The job offers a collaborative environment focused on innovation, with a salary range of $105,000 to $245,000 annually.

Qualifications

• PhD in Data Science, Statistics, Physics, Mathematics, or Computer Science.
• Strong foundations in statistical inference, probability, and modeling.
• Experience with scientific programming tools such as Python or R.

Responsibilities

• Support development of data collection, processing, and analysis efforts.
• Develop and evaluate statistical models for defense applications.
• Communicate technical knowledge clearly through papers and presentations.

Skills

Statistical inference

Data analysis

Programming (Python, R)

Statistical modeling

Experimental design

Education

PhD in Data Science, Statistics, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science or a related field

Tools

Bayesian methods

Probabilistic programming (Stan, PyMC)

Job description

Position Overview

Do you enjoy exploring and analyzing data to find data-driven solutions to complex problems?

Do you want to contribute to work that is crucial to maintaining our national security and strength?

Are you continuously searching for new ways to grow your knowledge and improve your skills?

If you are graduating with a PhD in Statistics, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field, we would love to have you join our team! We are seeking a new PhD graduate with expertise in statistics to support multi-disciplinary teams performing a variety of quantitative tasks for defense and national security applications. You will be joining a diverse team of engineers, software developers, statisticians, data scientists, and analysts who are committed to advancing the state-of-the-art in performance evaluation of the nation's strategic weapons systems throughout their lifecycle. We believe in continually growing our capabilities and cultivating a work environment that embraces innovation, integrity, trust, and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Work with multi-disciplinary teams to support development of data collection, processing, and analysis efforts to assess the performance of a number of systems supporting the Navy and Air Force.
• Develop and evaluate statistical models for complex defense applications, including uncertainty quantification, inference, forecasting, and decision support.
• Apply statistical reasoning for data-driven studies, selecting appropriate methods (e.g., Bayesian or frequentist approaches) based on the problem.
• Quantify and communicate uncertainty, assumptions, and limitations to support sound decision-making in complex, real-world settings.
• Use internal funding opportunities to shape the direction of future research.
• Communicate technical knowledge by articulating ideas clearly through papers and presentations to technical staff, management, and government decision makers.

Minimum Qualifications

• Have a PhD in Data Science, Statistics, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science or a related field.
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work independently and on a team.
• Have strong foundations in statistical inference, probability, statistical modeling, and experimental design.
• Have experience using scientific programming tools such as Python, R, or similar languages for quantitative analysis.
• Have experience investigating and adapting modern statistical and computational methods to address emerging analysis challenges in sparse, noisy, or high-dimensional data settings.
• Demonstrate experience with statistical modeling, inference, or experimental design approaches such as Bayesian methods, regression, causal inference, or hypothesis testing.
• Be able to obtain Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain Top Secret level clearance. Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Have experience in project management or leading technical teams.
• Have experience in writing technical proposals, particularly to government research projects.
• Have experience mentoring students, teaching, or communicating complex technical concepts in academic, research, or professional settings.
• Have contributed to peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, or presentations in statistics, machine learning, applied mathematics, or related fields.
• Have experience using probabilistic programming frameworks such as Stan, PyMC, or similar tools.
• Have research or professional experience developing reproducible analytical workflows, computational research tools, or statistical methodologies for complex quantitative problems.

Benefits & Working Environment

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. APL celebrates diverse perspectives and encourages creativity and bold new ideas.

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].

Salary

Minimum Rate: $105,000 Annually

Maximum Rate: $245,000 Annually