Synthetic Chemist

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 85,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks an organic chemist to develop solutions to challenging problems through chemical synthesis and characterization. You will lead experiments under project managers, collaborate with scientists, and contribute to diverse research domains in materials science, catalysis, and electrochemistry.

You will have opportunities to publish, mentor junior staff, travel for field testing and sponsor visits, and advance to leadership roles within a

Qualifications

• B.S. in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 2+ years of non-academic research experience.
• Experience in laboratory research and data handling.
• Familiarity with NMR, GC, LC, and/or MS.
• Ability to work in a collaborative team and travel for field work.

Responsibilities

• Perform synthesis, characterization, and performance testing under project direction.
• Analyze data and explain results of characterization studies.
• Document and present technical work to internal and external stakeholders.
• Work independently and in teams; contribute to publications and conferences.
• Possibility to publish and present research findings.

Skills

Molecular synthesis

Spectroscopy

Experimental design

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Communication of research findings

Willingness to travel

Security clearance readiness

Education

B.S. in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

M.A. in organic chemistry or related field

Tools

NMR spectroscopy

Gas chromatography

Liquid chromatography

Mass spectrometry

Job description

Are you motivated by conceiving creative solutions to tough problems?

Are you searching for a role that leads to significant real‑world impacts by applying your strengths in chemistry?

Are you passionate about collaborating with outstanding scientists and engineers to develop your own skills while contributing to critical challenges?

If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

We are seeking an organic chemist to help develop solutions to the complex problems that we take on through chemical synthesis and characterization. You will apply your strong background in chemistry to develop solutions for the government’s challenging problems. We need an ambitious and dedicated colleague who is eager to take a leadership and mentorship role and contribute to laboratory research. You will have the opportunity to work across a wide range of research domains including synthetic chemistry, polymer science, catalysis, materials science, and more. In our group, your research will span fields—from synthesis of stimuli‑responsive polymers to inorganic coatings for thermal management; from adhesives, coatings, and ink technologies, to electrochemistry and catalysis. We enable and encourage our team members to generate their own research ideas and publish their findings. At APL, we are a hardworking, multidisciplinary team that is committed to solving challenging problems while embracing risk with the goal of realizing creative solutions. Our team is passionate about building advanced prototypes that will define the future of chemical sciences. We strive to foster a collaborative environment with world‑class expertise that achieves game‑changing impact. Our APL team values integrity and innovative ideas that will ensure our nation’s preeminence in the 21st century.

As a chemist on our team…

• Your primary responsibility will be to perform experiments at the direction of a project manager and assist with the development of new materials via chemical synthesis, characterization, and performance testing, both in the lab and in the field.
• You will perform detailed data analyses and explain characterization results.
• You will document and present technical work internally and externally.
• You will get the chance to work on projects both independently and as part of a team.
• You will have the opportunity to publish your research and present at conferences.

Qualifications

• You possess a B.S. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• You have 2+ years of non‑academic research experience.
• You have demonstrable research experience in a laboratory environment.
• You have a background in molecular synthesis, spectroscopy, and experimental design.
• You are familiar with nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, and/or mass spectrometry.
• You have experience working as a member of a collaborative team.
• You are comfortable communicating research findings in various settings.
• You are willing and able to carry out laboratory research and travel for field testing, sponsor visits, conference attendance, and presentations.
• You 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. Security clearance eligibility requires you to be a U.S. citizen.

You’ll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you…

• You have an M.A. in organic chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field.
• You have 5+ years of research experience.
• You are proficient in catalysis, air‑free synthesis, electrochemistry, and/or polymer synthesis and characterization.
• You have published research in peer‑reviewed journals.

About Us

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.

Why Work at APL?

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. 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: $85,000 Annually

Maximum Rate: $195,000 Annually

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].