2026 PhD Graduate - Advanced Sensor Technology Development

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory•Laurel, MD

163d

About The Position

Are you looking for a career with a wide variety of technical opportunities? Do you enjoy research and development that advances the state-of-the-art? Are you motivated by constantly learning and taking on new challenges in a supportive environment? If you are graduating with a PhD degree in Electrical, Computer Engineering or Computer Science, Mathematics, or Physics and want to work on advanced sensor technologies, we would love to have you join our team! We are seeking candidates with academic backgrounds and interest in: Radar RF communications RF system design and technologies Phased arrays, antennas, and electromagnetics EO/IR sensor systems Real-time software and software architecture Digital hardware, firmware, RFSoCs, and FPGAs Advanced signal processing Mechanical design, analysis, and platform integration Electronics packaging Power systems Our team performs cutting edge technical work, developing systems and the underlying technologies that enable important next-generation capabilities in radar, electronic warfare, and communications. Your primary responsibilities will include applying your skills to any of the following: 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 As a member of our group, you will be focused on developing advanced sensor concepts and bringing those concepts to fruition through design, analysis, development, and testing. You will be challenged to develop innovative solutions, through collaboration across APL, that enable new capabilities for APL sponsors. Your work will provide growth opportunities to both develop system-level insight and advance your core expertise.

Requirements

Have a PhD degree in Electrical, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or Physics.
Have in-depth understanding in one or more of the following fields: signal processing, RF systems, electromagnetics, communications, real-time software, firmware development, communications, or mechanical packaging/engineering. This could include experience with: Scientific or mathematical programming languages, such as MATLAB, Python, and C/C++ RF and Electromagnetic simulation tools, such as Cadence AWR, Keysight ADS, Ansys Electronics Desktop, and Altair FEKO RF test equipment such as spectrum/network analyzers, signal generators, and/or oscilloscopes Advanced electronics packaging, thermal management, structural design, and platform integration
Are willing and able to travel up to 5% of the time to test sites or meetings.
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.

Nice To Haves

Have educational, intern, or research experience in the previously listed disciplines.
Have experience with advanced sensors including phased arrays, digital arrays, electro-optical, infrared or experience with sensor technologies used in these systems.
Have a record of scholarly publications in peer reviewed venues.

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