Aerosol Scientist

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 100,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab is seeking an Aerosol Scientist in Laurel, Maryland. The ideal candidate will lead research in aerosol and biological sciences, manage complex scientific projects, and effectively communicate findings.

Qualifications include a Bachelor's degree in engineering or science and expertise in aerosol analytical methods. The position offers a salary range of $100,000 to $245,000 annually along with opportunities for professional growth and technical leadership.

Qualifications

• Professional experience with aerosol and/or atmospheric analytical equipment.
• Ability to obtain a Secret level security clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Lead research and development in aerosol sciences.
• Conduct laboratory and field experiments.
• Provide technical leadership in scientific challenges.
• Communicate findings through reports and publications.

Skills

Aerosol and atmospheric analytical equipment

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Problem-solving abilities

Data science techniques

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or science

MS or PhD in a relevant field

Job description

Aerosol Scientist

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), a national leader in scientific research and development, is seeking an Aerosol Scientist to join our team.

At APL, we are passionate about delivering the right solutions to our government sponsors and end users. We are committed to integrity, honesty, and scientific excellence, and we strive to be a trusted, independent agent for the nation. In this role, you will:

• Work alongside creative, motivated problem solvers and life‑long learners
• Tackle problems in biodefense, healthcare, and environmental monitoring
• Contribute to programs that directly strengthen the safety and security of our country
• Be part of a “One Team” environment of trust, transparency, collaboration, and accountability

Job Summary

Lead and contribute to research, development, and characterization projects in aerosol, atmospheric, and biological sciences aimed at understanding, detecting, and mitigating airborne chemical and biological hazards.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to and lead research, development, and characterization efforts involving aerosol, atmospheric, and biological sciences, as well as associated technologies.
• Design and conduct laboratory and field experiments, including development of test plans, integration and operation of aerosol and biological measurement systems, and collection, analysis, and interpretation of experimental data.
• Provide technical leadership by identifying and solving complex scientific and engineering challenges, guiding experimental activities, and contributing to the development of new research initiatives and proposals.
• Communicate technical findings clearly and effectively through written reports, sponsor briefings, peer‑reviewed publications, and presentations to the broader scientific community.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, or another field relevant to the duties as described above.
• Professional experience with aerosol and/or atmospheric analytical equipment and laboratory methods.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, along with excellent interpersonal, organizational, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, apply careful and methodical work practices, and collaborate effectively within interdisciplinary teams of scientists and engineers.
• Ability to obtain a Secret level security clearance. Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship.

Desired Qualifications

• MS or PhD in a relevant field.
• Strong peer‑reviewed publication record.
• Experience designing, developing, and operating experimental systems for biological or chemical aerosol sensing, sampling, characterization, and laboratory or field testing.
• Experience with biological or chemical agent/simulant aerosols, biological detection technologies, toxicological or biological effects assessment, and associated laboratory safety practices.
• Knowledge of statistical data analysis, uncertainty quantification, and experimental design principles.
• Experience applying data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, or advanced analytics techniques to large or complex aerosol, atmospheric, or biological datasets.
• Demonstrated technical leadership experience in research, project coordination, or mentoring.
• Secret security clearance.

Special Working Conditions

This position involves approximately two weeks of travel per year and work in Biosafety Level 2 and 3 laboratories.

Equal Employment Opportunity 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].

Pay Range

Minimum Rate: $100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate: $245,000 Annually