Applied AI Researcher for Cyber-Physical Systems

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks an Applied AI Researcher to advance AI/ML for cyber-physical systems used in defense and intelligence applications. You will lead small teams, architect innovative solutions, and transition capabilities to government sponsors and operators.

Expect to analyze technologies powering ISR, exploit vulnerabilities in hardware/software, and guide research directions that improve operator awareness and decision-making.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in CS, AI, CE, EE, or related field.
• 3+ years in software engineering, cybersecurity, cyber-physical systems, or related fields.
• Strong programming in Python, C/C++, Rust, with reliable tools development.
• Experience applying machine learning, LLMs, or agentic AI to extract insights.
• Ability to independently define technical approaches and drive to completion.
• Strong written and verbal communication to engage sponsors and present findings.
• Citizenship with eligibility for Interim Top Secret clearance and Top Secret clearance.

Responsibilities

• Develop software systems for novel mission capabilities against cyber-physical systems.
• Apply AI/ML to automate operations and enable intelligent decisions.
• Lead R&D efforts by architecting solutions and mentoring teams.
• Identify emerging technologies and define new research directions for defense needs.
• Foster collaboration across multidisciplinary teams and mentor engineers.

Skills

Python

C/C++

Rust

Machine Learning

Artificial Intelligence

Team leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science / AI / CE / EE

Job description

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks an Applied AI Researcher to advance AI/ML for cyber-physical systems used in defense and intelligence applications. You will lead small teams, architect innovative solutions, and transition capabilities to government sponsors and operators.

Expect to analyze technologies powering ISR, exploit vulnerabilities in hardware/software, and guide research directions that improve operator awareness and decision-making.