AI Researcher – Complex Systems

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 85,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks researchers to advance AI/ML methods for complex scientific and engineering problems in fields like earth systems, materials science, and data-intensive applications.

This role emphasizes collaboration with scientists and engineers, proficiency in Python and ML libraries, and work with cutting-edge tool-using AI systems while pursuing required security clearances.

Qualifications

• Have a B.S. or M.S. in a STEM field, such as AI, Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, or a related discipline.
• Are proficient in Python programming.
• Have experience in at least one relevant technical area, such as machine learning, data science, deep learning, graph-based methods, scientific computing, statistical analysis, or software development.
• Have experience with AI/ML libraries or frameworks such as PyTorch, Hugging Face, NumPy, pandas, SciPy, scikit-learn, or similar tools.
• Have experience with LLMs, RAG systems, agent frameworks, tool-using AI systems, or multi-step agentic workflows.
• Have familiarity with, or strong interest in learning emerging AI paradigms such as LLM-based agents, tool-using AI systems, retrieval-augmented generation, or AI-assisted scientific discovery.
• Have interest in applying AI to scientific or engineering domains such as earth systems, materials science, biology, chemistry, additive manufacturing, or other complex systems.
• Are able to acquire an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately acquire 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.

Skills

Python programming

AI/ML experience

LLMs / RAG familiarity

Education

B.S./M.S. in STEM

Tools

PyTorch

Hugging Face

NumPy

pandas

SciPy

scikit-learn

Job description

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks researchers to advance AI/ML methods for complex scientific and engineering problems in fields like earth systems, materials science, and data-intensive applications.

This role emphasizes collaboration with scientists and engineers, proficiency in Python and ML libraries, and work with cutting-edge tool-using AI systems while pursuing required security clearances.