PhD Graduate: Rotational Discovery Program in Defense Tech

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 105,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) invites PhD graduates to join the Discovery Program, a two-year rotational track across defense systems, cyber operations, and national security analysis. You will rotate through disciplines, gain hands-on experience, and contribute to critical challenges for U.S.

government agencies. Start dates are in May–July 2027, coordinated with degree completion and onboarding schedules.

Qualifications

• Have a Ph.D. in a STEM field.
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and transcripts.
• Strong technical experience demonstrated through internships, research, or projects.
• Demonstrated initiative and excellence in technical projects or activities.

Responsibilities

• Join the Discovery Program and contribute to a varied set of projects across multiple technical areas.
• Collaborate with technical experts to drive impact on national security challenges.
• Accelerate your development through targeted training, mentorship, and hands-on experience.
• Participate in an Innovation Challenge Project to design and pitch a solution to a complex technical problem.

Skills

PhD in STEM

Strong GPA 3.5

Internship/Research Experience

Leadership experience

Education

PhD in STEM field

Job description

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) invites PhD graduates to join the Discovery Program, a two-year rotational track across defense systems, cyber operations, and national security analysis. You will rotate through disciplines, gain hands-on experience, and contribute to critical challenges for U.S.

government agencies. Start dates are in May–July 2027, coordinated with degree completion and onboarding schedules.