2027 PhD Graduate - Modeler and Data Analyst

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, MD is seeking a Modeler and Data Analyst to design, prototype, and test sonar and electromagnetic sensor systems. You will contribute to advancing U.S. Navy capabilities through sensor performance prediction and assessment.

Join a team of physicists, engineers, and mathematicians turning concepts into real systems. Your work will include developing and validating underwater acoustic or EM models, analyzing data, and presenting results to

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Engineering, or Applied Mathematics.
• Knowledge of acoustic or electromagnetic wave propagation.
• Proficient in MATLAB or Python.
• Able to obtain Interim Secret clearance by start date and ultimately Top Secret; U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct sensor system performance modeling for undersea warfare projects.
• Develop, maintain, and extend models of underwater acoustic or electromagnetic propagation and system performance.
• Analyze sonar or electromagnetic system data.
• Document and present results.

Skills

Wave propagation knowledge

MATLAB or Python

Security clearance eligibility

Data analysis

Education

PhD in Physics, Engineering, or Applied Mathematics

Job description

Are you an expert in developing physics‑based acoustic or electromagnetic wave propagation models?

Are you passionate about designing and testing prototype sensors?

If you are graduating with a PhD in Physics, Engineering, or Applied Mathematics and want to work in acoustic or electromagnetic sensors and systems, we'd love to have you join our team!

We are seeking a Modeler and Data Analyst to help us design, prototype, and test novel sonar and electromagnetic systems and concepts. As a member of our team, you will contribute to advancing U.S. Navy capabilities through sensor system performance prediction and assessment. You will be joining a hardworking team of physicists, engineers, and mathematicians who take new acoustic and electromagnetic sensor systems from concept to reality in support of U.S. homeland security. We are passionate about understanding physical phenomena and how they may be utilized.

As a member of our team…

• Your primary responsibility will be to conduct sensor system performance modeling for undersea warfare projects
• You will develop, maintain, and extend models of underwater acoustic or electromagnetic propagation and system performance
• You will analyze sonar or electromagnetic system data
• You will document and present results

Qualifications

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

• Have a PhD in Physics, Engineering, or Applied Mathematics
• Have knowledge of acoustic or electromagnetic wave propagation
• Are proficient in MATLAB or Python
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top 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 experience in collecting sonar data and comparing to model predictions
• Have experience with electromagnetic sensors
• Are familiar with acoustic source and receiver technology
• Have experience using high performance computing or software development best practices.

About Us

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