2027 PhD Graduate - Advanced Sensor Technology Development

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks PhD holders in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or Physics to work on advanced sensor technologies. You will contribute to radar, RF, EO/IR systems, and related domains, guiding concepts from design to testing in a collaborative environment.

You will develop innovative sensor concepts, analyze performance, and collaborate across APL to deliver next-generation capabilities for sponsors.

Qualifications

• PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or Physics.
• Deep knowledge in one or more: signal processing, RF systems, electromagnetics, communications, real-time software, firmware development, or mechanical packaging/engineering.
• Proficiency with MATLAB, Python, and C/C++.
• Experience with RF/EM tools such as Cadence AWR, Keysight ADS, Ansys Electronics Desktop, Altair FEKO.
• Experience with RF test equipment (spectrum/network analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes).
• Willing to travel up to 5% and able to obtain Interim Secret clearance / Secret clearance; U.S. citizenship.

Responsibilities

• Conceptual design and analysis of sensor components, subsystems and systems.
• Fabrication and testing of experimental hardware.
• Developing advanced algorithms and techniques.
• Assessment of system-level performance improvements resulting from technology advancements.

Skills

Signal processing

RF systems

Electromagnetics

Communications

Real-time software

Firmware development

Mechanical packaging

Platform integration

Education

PhD in Electrical Engineering

PhD in Computer Engineering

PhD in Computer Science

PhD in Mathematics

PhD in Physics

Tools

MATLAB

Python

C/C++

Cadence AWR

Keysight ADS

Ansys Electronics Desktop

Altair FEKO

Spectrum/Network analyzers

Oscilloscopes

Job description

Description

Are you looking for a career with a wide variety of technical opportunities?

Do you enjoy research and development that advances the state-of-the-art?

Are you motivated by constantly learning and taking on new challenges in a supportive environment?

If you are graduating with a PhD degree in Electrical, Computer Engineering or Computer Science, Mathematics, or Physics and want to work on advanced sensor technologies, we would love to have you join our team! We are seeking candidates with academic backgrounds and interest in:

• Radar
• RF communications
• RF system design and technologies
• Phased arrays, antennas, and electromagnetics
• EO/IR sensor systems
• Real-time software and software architecture
• Digital hardware, firmware, RFSoCs, and FPGAs
• Advanced signal processing
• Mechanical design, analysis, and platform integration
• Electronics packaging
• Power systems

Our team performs cutting edge technical work, developing systems and the underlying technologies that enable important next-generation capabilities in radar, electronic warfare, and communications. Your primary responsibilities will include applying your skills to any of the following:

• Conceptual design and analysis of sensor components, subsystems and systems
• Fabrication and testing of experimental hardware
• Developing advanced algorithms and techniques
• Assessment of system-level performance improvements resulting from technology advancements

As a member of our group, you will be focused on developing advanced sensor concepts and bringing those concepts to fruition through design, analysis, development, and testing. You will be challenged to develop innovative solutions, through collaboration across APL, that enable new capabilities for APL sponsors. Your work will provide growth opportunities to both develop system-level insight and advance your core expertise.

Qualifications

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

• Have a PhD degree in Electrical, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or Physics.
• Have in-depth understanding in one or more of the following fields: signal processing, RF systems, electromagnetics, communications, real-time software, firmware development, communications, or mechanical packaging/engineering. This could include experience with:
  • Scientific or mathematical programming languages, such as MATLAB, Python, and C/C++
  • RF and Electromagnetic simulation tools, such as Cadence AWR, Keysight ADS, Ansys Electronics Desktop, and Altair FEKO
  • RF test equipment such as spectrum/network analyzers, signal generators, and/or oscilloscopes
  • Advanced electronics packaging, thermal management, structural design, and platform integration
• Are willing and able to travel up to 5% of the time to test sites or meetings.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a 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 educational, intern, or research experience in the previously listed disciplines.
• Have experience with advanced sensors including phased arrays, digital arrays, electro-optical, infrared or experience with sensor technologies used in these systems.
• Have a record of scholarly publications in peer reviewed venues.

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 https://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

$105,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually