Senior Scientist - Bioengineering

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory•Laurel, MD

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Are you driven to solve hard problems with advances in biotechnology? Are you passionate about being on the forefront of novel applications for biohybrid systems and new approach methodologies (NAMs)? Are you excited to collaborate across technical teams to deliver rapid, scalable solutions to our Nation’s challenges in security and health? If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL. The Applied Biological Sciences Group (QLA), located within the Asymmetric Operations Sector (AOS), is committed to APL's mission to provide critical contributions to critical challenges. JHU/APL is seeking an experienced Senior Scientist to lead applied research at the forefront of biotechnology, bioengineering, and advanced in vitro model systems. The candidate will integrate deep technical expertise in molecular and cellular biology to advance solutions in National Defense, biosecurity, and human health. This role is ideal for a multidisciplinary leader passionate about applying biotechnology to develop biohybrid systems, biomanufacturing approaches, and sensing that bridge molecular-scale technologies with system-level applications. We are a hard-working team that tackles ambitious problems, spanning scientific disciplines and engineering approaches. We believe in strong and collaborative relationships, and we strive to foster a work environment of safety, trust, confidence, teamwork, and accountability. We are passionate about getting the right solution to our sponsors and end users and are committed to integrity and honesty. We strive to be a trusted agent for the government and cultivate an environment of trust, transparency, and accountability. At APL, you will be among creative thinkers, motivated problem solvers, and life-long learners that want to strengthen the safety and security of our Nation and our warfighters.

Requirements

A PhD in Cell & Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, Genetics, Biomedical Engineering, Biomaterials, or another field relevant to the duties as described above.
At least 5 years of demonstrated relevant experience.
Experience working with a broad variety of molecular assays and 2D/3D in vitro cellular or stem cell-derived advanced tissue models (organoids).
Experience with genome engineering in eukaryotic or prokaryotic models.
Strong written and verbal communications skills in addition to strong laboratory skills and the ability to manage multiple simultaneous projects and priorities.
Methodical, meticulous work practices and excellent interpersonal, logical reasoning, and organizational skills.
Demonstrated success in technical leadership, research funding acquisition, publication, and mentorship.
The ability to work collaboratively in a team environment with scientists and engineers representing different backgrounds, skills, and experience levels.
The desire to work in both BSL2 and chemical laboratory environments.
The ability to obtain an Interim Secret clearance by start date, and ultimately obtain a Secret security 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

Experience differentiating and validating multiple stem cell-derived advanced tissue models.
Experience with microfluidics, advanced materials, and related fabrication methods.
Experience leading end‑to‑end workflows from gene synthesis, cloning, and transformation through fermentation/bioreactor scale‑up, purification, and analytical characterization.
A background in ‘omics technologies.
Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

Engineer genomes for model development and multi-disciplinary applications (e.g., production of complex proteins, peptides, or biologics).
Develop and utilize advanced in vitro models (organoids, microphysiological systems (MPS), and organ-on-chip platforms) to tackle sponsor challenges.
Design and construct bio-inspired systems for sensing and modeling applications by combining engineering principles with molecular and cellular biology.
Collaborate closely with biologists, chemists, data analysts, and engineers, performing experiments in support of multiple research areas (biodefense, healthcare, etc.).
Serve as a lead on high-impact proposals, manage interdisciplinary teams, and contribute to strategy development for defense biotechnology and health portfolios.
Mentor and train junior staff members to grow technical capabilities in the laboratory.
Demonstrate technical expertise through designing and performing experiments, analyzing data, and writing technical reports.
Publish and present experimental results to our sponsors and the broader scientific community.