2027 PhD Graduate - Rotational Discovery Program

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory•Laurel, MD

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Discovery Program is a two-year rotational program for recent PhD graduates in STEM fields. It offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience across multiple technical areas, develop skills, and explore professional interests. Participants will apply innovative solutions to critical national challenges, collaborate with experts, and build a strong career foundation. The program focuses on engineering, analytical, and research problems in domains such as defense systems, undersea warfare, cyber operations, and national security analysis. Selected candidates must be able to start between May and July 2027.

Requirements

PhD in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering, mathematics).
Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
Strong technical experience, as proven through demonstrated impact in at least one internship, research experience, or project outside of the classroom.
Demonstrated initiative that has enabled excellence in technical projects, professional experiences, or extracurricular activities.
Thrive in a collaborative team environment with strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to quickly contribute to projects in technical areas that are new to you.
Interest in solving complex research, engineering, and/or analytical problems that present critical challenges to U.S. government agencies including the Department of War.
Comfortable conducting work in support of the Department of War, including offensive military systems.
Able to acquire an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately acquire a Secret level clearance.
U.S. citizenship.

Nice To Haves

Engaged in multiple internships, research experiences, or projects outside of the classroom.
Leadership experience.

Responsibilities

Contribute to a varied set of projects, employing and honing a wide range of skills to meet unique mission needs.
Collaborate with technical experts to drive impact.
Accelerate technical and professional development through targeted training, mentorship, and hands-on experience.
Innovate through a dedicated Innovation Challenge Project, where you’ll design and pitch a solution to a complex technical problem.