2026 PhD Graduate - Radar, Machine Learning, Signal Processing, Data Science

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory•Laurel, MD

135d

About The Position

Are you interested in applied R&D? Do you enjoy working in a creative environment, as part of a varied team of engineers, physicists, and computer scientists? Do you want to play a critical role in the defense of our country - at sea and at home - from advanced missile threats? We are seeking highly motivated PhD graduates in Electrical Engineering (EE), Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE), Computer Science (CS), Physics, or a similar technical degree. We are particularly interested in self-guided, creative problem-solvers who can develop into future technical leaders for our research performed for the US Navy and other DoD sponsors. As a member of our team, you will... Participate in live radar testing and analyze recorded data to gain insights into system performance, particularly with regard to environmental effects/physics. Develop and apply detailed, physics-based simulations written in Java, C/C++, Matlab, and Python. Learn and creatively apply machine learning, signal processing, and data science to real-world problems that no one else has previously solved. Develop novel instrumentation and algorithms for understanding RF propagation effects by directly measuring, recording, and analyzing RF signal measurements. Learn, apply skills, and advance the state of the art in our core technology areas of: signal processing, electromagnetics, software development, and boundary-layer meteorology. Develop skills to lead technical teams toward common goals. Directly communicate your results to sponsors and contractors to guide the directions of DoD programs toward technical success.

Requirements

Have a PhD degree in EE, ECE, CS, Physics, or a similar technical field, with an GPA above 3.5.
Are familiar with Python, Matlab, or equivalent, or have had some exposure to modern development process (git, GitLab, Jira, or equivalent).
Have a strong understanding of, and interest in, machine learning, data science, signal processing, and/or electromagnetic theory.
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

Also have cross-discipline technical degrees, including minors, in EE, ECE, CS, Physics in addition to a PhD.
Have radar or RF research experience (hardware, antennas, remote sensing, tracking, etc.)
Have internship experience related to DoD research, DoD contractors, or the advanced-technology industry.

Responsibilities

Participate in live radar testing and analyze recorded data to gain insights into system performance, particularly with regard to environmental effects/physics.
Develop and apply detailed, physics-based simulations written in Java, C/C++, Matlab, and Python.
Learn and creatively apply machine learning, signal processing, and data science to real-world problems that no one else has previously solved.
Develop novel instrumentation and algorithms for understanding RF propagation effects by directly measuring, recording, and analyzing RF signal measurements.
Learn, apply skills, and advance the state of the art in our core technology areas of: signal processing, electromagnetics, software development, and boundary-layer meteorology.
Develop skills to lead technical teams toward common goals.
Directly communicate your results to sponsors and contractors to guide the directions of DoD programs toward technical success.