PhD Sensor Tech Researcher – Radar, RF & EO/IR Systems

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks PhD holders in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or Physics to work on advanced sensor technologies. You will contribute to radar, RF, EO/IR systems, and related domains, guiding concepts from design to testing in a collaborative environment.

You will develop innovative sensor concepts, analyze performance, and collaborate across APL to deliver next-generation capabilities for sponsors.

Qualifications

• PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or Physics.
• Deep knowledge in one or more: signal processing, RF systems, electromagnetics, communications, real-time software, firmware development, or mechanical packaging/engineering.
• Proficiency with MATLAB, Python, and C/C++.
• Experience with RF/EM tools such as Cadence AWR, Keysight ADS, Ansys Electronics Desktop, Altair FEKO.
• Experience with RF test equipment (spectrum/network analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes).
• Willing to travel up to 5% and able to obtain Interim Secret clearance / Secret clearance; U.S. citizenship.

Responsibilities

• Conceptual design and analysis of sensor components, subsystems and systems.
• Fabrication and testing of experimental hardware.
• Developing advanced algorithms and techniques.
• Assessment of system-level performance improvements resulting from technology advancements.

Skills

Signal processing

RF systems

Electromagnetics

Communications

Real-time software

Firmware development

Mechanical packaging

Platform integration

Education

PhD in Electrical Engineering

PhD in Computer Engineering

PhD in Computer Science

PhD in Mathematics

PhD in Physics

Tools

MATLAB

Python

C/C++

Cadence AWR

Keysight ADS

Ansys Electronics Desktop

Altair FEKO

Spectrum/Network analyzers

Oscilloscopes

Job description

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks PhD holders in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or Physics to work on advanced sensor technologies. You will contribute to radar, RF, EO/IR systems, and related domains, guiding concepts from design to testing in a collaborative environment.

You will develop innovative sensor concepts, analyze performance, and collaborate across APL to deliver next-generation capabilities for sponsors.