Computational Soft Matter Modeler

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 105,000 - 290,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory seeks a Computational Soft Matter Researcher to develop macromolecule models linking structure to function across scales. You will perform analyses spanning structural, thermodynamic, chemical, and electromagnetic phenomena, using MD, computational chemistry, coarse-graining, and machine learning.

Collaboration with analysts, scientists, and engineers is essential.

Qualifications

• PhD in Biochemical, Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or equivalent with demonstrated application.
• 3+ years of physics-based simulations of macromolecules (e.g., quantum-chemistry, classical MD, coarse-grained models).
• Ability to work independently and also in multidisciplinary teams; strong communication with experimental colleagues.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to other government and contractor sites and obtain needed security clearances.

Responsibilities

• Develop and use models of macromolecules to relate structure and function across scales.
• Perform analyses of macromolecular characteristics including structural, thermodynamic, chemical, and EM phenomena.
• Leverage classical MD, computational chemistry, coarse-graining, enhanced sampling, statistics, and ML.
• Collaborate daily with analysts, scientists, and engineers; propose future projects.
• Craft reports and present results to team members and government partners.
• Contribute to team-based software development and documentation.

Skills

Independent work

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Problem solving

Travel willingness

Education

PhD in a relevant field

Tools

MATLAB

C/C++

Python

FORTRAN

MPI/OpenMP

Job description

Description

Are you a creative person driven to solve new problems?

Are you searching for impactful work in computational engineering and research that doesn’t confine you to working on the same thing year after year?

Does making meaningful contributions to projects using synthetic and bio‑derived polymers to solve problems in human health, sensing, and biomanufacturing sound like a dream job?

As a Computational Soft Matter Researcher, you will:

• Develop and use models of macromolecules to determine relationships between structure and function across a variety of length and time scales, from enzymatic activity and chemical reactivity, to large‑scale mechanical properties and flow.
• Perform and develop analyses spanning a broad range of macromolecular characteristics including structural, thermodynamic, chemical, and electromagnetic phenomena.
• Leverage modeling methods including classical molecular dynamics, computational chemistry, coarse graining, enhanced sampling, statistics, and machine learning.
• Actively collaborate with analysts, scientists, and engineers on a day‑to‑day basis.
• Propose future projects and initiatives.
• Craft reports and give presentations to communicate results to team members and government partners.

We’re looking for talented and versatile computational researchers who are excited to expand their analytical toolbox. If you have experience in any of the methods or tools above, and are motivated to learn even more, we want to talk to you.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you have:

• A Ph.D. in Biochemical, Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or equivalent with demonstrated application of knowledge to answer complex questions.
• 3+ years of experience in performing physics‑based simulations of macromolecules, such as quantum‑chemistry calculations, classical molecular dynamics or coarse‑grained molecular models.
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently with minimal guidance, and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and collaborate with experimental colleagues.
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Willingness and ability to travel occasionally to attend meetings or tests at other government and contractor sites.
• Ability to work in closed area facilities.
• Are able to obtain a Secret level security 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 developing models of macromolecules that convey information across simulations at different length/time scales or physics.
• Experience modeling macromolecules and their environmental interactions for specific applications in sensing, biomanufacturing, or medical countermeasures.
• Expertise in developing and/or applying machine learning models for accelerated simulation, screening, or design of macromolecules.
• Scientific/engineering programming experience, with the ability to work in multiple languages (MATLAB, C/C++, Python, FORTRAN, …) and algorithms commonly used in computational science and engineering.
• Experience using hardware accelerators (e.g. GPUs) and familiarity with parallel programming techniques (MPI/OpenMP).
• Demonstrated ability to contribute to team‑based software development.
• A track record of concurrently contributing impactful technical work to multiple efforts.
• Experience collaborating closely with experimental colleagues to develop novel approaches or technical solutions.

About Us

Why Work at APL?

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

$290,000 Annually