Cybersecurity Engineer for National Security Research

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 computer scientists, engineers, and mathematicians to advance cyber capabilities for national security. You will contribute to research areas spanning cryptography, embedded systems, and offensive security, collaborating with government sponsors and industry peers.

You will help design testbeds and evaluation workflows, work on constrained platforms, and gain exposure to internal funding opportunities to shape future research

Qualifications

• Pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Cybersecurity, Space Systems Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or related field.
• Experience in Python, Rust, VHDL, Verilog, C, C++, Java, MATLAB, or another popular programming language.
• Background in one or more areas: Advanced Cryptography, Embedded Solutions, Offensive Security, Cyber Mission Engineering, or Constrained Cyber Integration/Deployment.
• Ability to obtain a Top Secret level security clearance by start date and U.S. citizenship.
• Active involvement in internships, coursework, or projects related to cybersecurity, hardware, software, or related disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Research and develop advanced cryptography concepts and transition to mission capabilities.
• Develop low-level software, firmware, and FPGA logic for constrained platforms and protocols.
• Analyze cyber vulnerabilities in hardware/software and assess mission impact.
• Collaborate with mission engineers to integrate, validate, and operationalize capabilities within larger systems.
• Design networks, testbeds, virtual ranges, and evaluation workflows to rapidly deploy cyber capabilities.

Skills

Python

C++

Java

MATLAB

Rust

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science/Engineering, Cybersecurity, Space Systems Engineering, Mathematics, Physics

Tools

VHDL

Verilog

FPGA

Job description

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks computer scientists, engineers, and mathematicians to advance cyber capabilities for national security. You will contribute to research areas spanning cryptography, embedded systems, and offensive security, collaborating with government sponsors and industry peers.

You will help design testbeds and evaluation workflows, work on constrained platforms, and gain exposure to internal funding opportunities to shape future research