2024 Graduate - Postdoctoral Chemistry or Physics Researcher – Sensor Developer - Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Are you passionate about bringing cutting-edge technology to bear in real-world applications?

Do you want a career that challenges you and affords opportunities for life-long learning?

If you are graduating with a PhD degree in chemistry, physics, or a related field, and have experience building scientific instruments, we’d love to have you join our team!

We are a multidisciplinary team of hardworking, and dedicated scientists and engineers, who develop novel sensors and chemistry tools for the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Defense, and the Intelligence Community, including technologies to ensure warfighter health and readiness. We strive to foster an environment of innovation, inclusion, and creativity, so that diverse perspectives can provide new and exciting avenues to research. As a member of our team, you will work with physicists, engineers, chemists, and biologists to tackle our nation’s most important problems.

As a member of our team, you will….

• Design and build novel chemical sensors, including mass spectrometers, infrared and Raman spectrometers, and chromatographic instruments.
• Develop new techniques for sensor evaluation. Design testbeds, environmental chambers, and vacuum systems.
• Pursue independent research and develop new approaches to critical national challenges, and develop original proposals.
• Collaborate with synthetic and analytical chemists, chemical engineers, and physicists, to translate operational needs into functional prototypes.

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Have a Ph.D. in chemistry, physics, or a related technical field, and have a strong academic record.
• Possess a record of creativity and problem-solving.
• Have the ability to work with other scientists and connect with the broader scientific community through publication, patents, and presentations.
• Are able to travel occasionally to attend meetings with our government partners and operational stakeholders.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret level 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 minimal requirements if you…

• Have experience writing research proposals.
• Can design circuits, use CAD programs, and write software.
• Have experience working in the areas of national defense, terrorism, and weapons of mass destruction.

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 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 www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

APL is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. 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 promoting an innovative environment that embraces diversity, encourages creativity, and supports inclusion of new ideas. In doing so, we are 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 Accommodations@jhuapl.edu. Only by ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard are we empowered to be bold, do great things, and make the world a better place.