2027 PhD Postdoctoral Researcher in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Detection, Biosurveillance, and Mitigation of Emerging Biological Threats

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory • Laurel, MD

33d • Onsite

About The Position

This position is for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Artificial Intelligence (AI), focusing on the detection, biosurveillance, and mitigation of emerging biological threats. The role involves applying AI-enabled techniques to research in infectious diseases, biology, and public health. The researcher will work with interdisciplinary teams combining computational science, public health, and biological sciences. The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) works with the U.S. Government to improve the nation’s ability to understand and mitigate biological threats, collaborating across the Johns Hopkins enterprise and with external partners. The position offers an opportunity to contribute to high-impact research, development, and validation projects using AI-driven models and in-silico simulation to enhance understanding and mitigation of biological threats.

Requirements

• PhD in Public Health, Biological Sciences, or Engineering in a relevant field.
• Strong technical background that includes direct experience with AI (including machine learning) methods for public health or biological systems and a track record of peer‑reviewed publications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting sophisticated technical concepts to mixed audiences (scientists, engineers, policy makers).
• The ability to manage multiple simultaneous assignments and changing priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Methodical, meticulous work practices and superior interpersonal, logical‑reasoning, and organizational skills.
• The ability to work collaboratively in our team environment with scientists and engineers representing different backgrounds, skills, and experience levels.
• Knowledge of statistical data analysis methods and experimental design.
• Proficiency with Python, R, or other programming language, and familiarity with high‑performance/parallel computing environments.
• U.S. citizenship.
• Ability to obtain a final Secret level clearance.

Nice To Haves

• Experience applying machine‑learning models (e.g., predictive algorithms, ensemble methods, advanced pathogen simulation techniques, etc.) to tackle some of the most complex biothreat challenges facing the Nation.
• Experience with Biosafety Level 2 laboratories.

Responsibilities

• Devise and lead an independent research project that applies AI concepts to address current biological challenges facing our sponsors.
• Participate in interdisciplinary teams, working in computational and data analytic environments.
• Write technical reports and publications, and publish and present findings across internal teams, sponsors, and the broader scientific community.
• Leverage novel findings to advance mitigation strategies to reduce the impact of disease on public and warfighter health.
• Propose novel ideas and develop internal and external proposals aimed at the hardest biological problems facing the Nation.

Benefits

• Robust education assistance program
• Unparalleled retirement contributions
• Healthy work/life balance
• Retirement plans
• Paid time off
• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Short-term disability
• Long-term disability
• Flexible spending accounts
• Training and development
• Sign-on bonus
• Relocation benefits

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree