2027 PhD Graduate - Radar, Machine Learning, Signal Processing, Data Science

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

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Education assistance

Retirement contributions

Work/life balance

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory is seeking motivated PhD graduates in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related fields to join a team focused on advanced Radio Frequency and signal-processing research. The role involves working on innovative sensor technologies to support national defense.

The ideal candidate will have strong technical skills and a collaborative mindset, contributing to crucial projects that protect service members. A generous benefits package and vibrant work culture are offered, with a minimum salary of $105,000 annually.

Qualifications

• Have a PhD degree in a relevant technical field with a GPA above 3.5.
• Some familiarity with Python, Matlab, or equivalent, and modern development processes.
• Strong understanding of signal processing and electromagnetic theory.
• Ability to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Analyze live tactical sensor data with a cross-disciplinary team.
• Build and apply modeling and simulation tools to large data sets.
• Develop physics-based simulations for radar and electronic warfare system performance.
• Solve real-world problems affecting sensor performance.

Skills

Signal processing

Electromagnetic theory

Machine learning

Python

Matlab

Education

PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related fields

Tools

Git

GitLab

Jira

Job description

Description

Are you energized by the idea of shaping sensor technology that safeguards our nation at sea and on land? If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at APL. We are seeking highly motivated PhD graduates in Electrical Engineering (EE), Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE), Physics, or a similar STEM technical degree, who are eager to dive into advanced Radio Frequency (RF), radar, and signal‑processing research and grow into the next generation of technical leaders for the U.S. Navy and other Department of War (DoW) sponsors. You will work in areas including leading edge RF propagation, RF phenomenology, digital signal processing, new technology advanced sensor arrays/systems, wide‑area‑surveillance networks, currently fielded, and next‑generation systems.

Why Join Us

• Mission‑Driven Impact: Contribute directly to the development and fielding of next‑generation Navy Radar/EO/IR, electronic‑warfare, and land‑based cruise‑missile‑defense sensor networks that protect service members against the world’s toughest threats.
• Cutting‑Edge Innovation: Work with physics‑based modeling and simulation (M&S), advanced data‑analysis, and machine‑learning techniques to create innovative sensor‑performance tools.
• Collaborative Culture: Join a highly motivated, interdisciplinary team of sensor engineers, RF‑propagation and meteorology specialists, software developers, combat‑system engineers, and physicists— all focused on solving complex, mission‑critical problems.

Core Responsibilities

• Analyze live tactical‑sensor data with a cross‑disciplinary team to deliver mission‑driven solutions.
• Identify and solve problems that impact mission requirements.
• Build and apply M&S tools, data‑analysis platforms, and machine‑learning algorithms to large data sets; develop novel algorithms that solve real‑world problems.
• Develop and refine physics‑based simulations that provide new insight into radar, EO/IR, and electronic‑warfare system performance in realistic operational environments.
• Develop novel instrumentation and algorithms for understanding RF propagation effects by directly measuring, recording, and analyzing RF signal measurements.
• Identify emergent phenomenology, troubleshoot problems affecting sensor performance, and work with a broad network of experts—including prime contractors, government labs, RF‑propagation and meteorology specialists, software developers, combat‑system engineers, and physicists—to deliver integrated solutions.
• Develop and apply skills in machine learning, signal processing, and data science techniques to unprecedented real‑world challenges.
• Develop and apply skills that advance the state of the art in our core technology areas: signal processing, electromagnetics, software development, and boundary‑layer meteorology.

Qualifications

• Have a PhD degree in EE, ECE, Physics, or a similar technical field, with a GPA above 3.5.
• Some familiarity with Python, Matlab, or equivalent, or have had some exposure to modern development process (git, GitLab, Jira, or equivalent).
• Have a strong foundational understanding of signal processing, and/or electromagnetic theory (e.g., antenna systems, microwave transmission, RF propagation).
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret/SCI 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

• Also have cross‑discipline technical degrees, including minors, in EE, ECE, CS, Physics in addition to a PhD.
• Have radar or RF research experience (hardware, antennas, remote sensing, tracking, etc.).
• Have an understanding of, and interest in, application of machine learning and data science, to sensor related problems.
• Have internship experience related to DoW research, DoW contractors, or the advanced‑technology industry.

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.

Why Work at APL?

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