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Career Opportunities

Doctoral-Level Professionals

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Independent Research Driven by a Culture of Community

As a university affiliated research center (UARC), APL is a not-for-profit independent research organization that provides unique career opportunities. When you join us, you become part of a community of experts that supports cutting-edge national security and scientific solutions for the U.S. government. Your unique perspective as a doctoral-level scientist or engineer is vital to our ability to deliver critical contributions to our sponsors.

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Innovation Opportunities of a Lifetime

Solving the nation’s most critical challenges requires creative thinking and unique perspectives. That’s why doctoral-level engineers, researchers, and scientists are vital members of APL’s teams. The rewarding and challenging work at APL spans a wide range of career areas, from electrical engineering to neuroscience. APL’s full-time and postdoctoral career opportunities allow our staff members to pursue their research passions, even outside of their day jobs.

We foster a culture of innovation and lifelong learning that supports the exploration of your academic interests and creative ideas. From pursuing new ideas and concepts to teaching STEM classes and courses, we provide a variety of avenues for you to collaborate with subject-matter experts, develop your work, and solve critical challenges for our nation. Some of our collaboration and research opportunities include:

  • Independent Research and Development Program (IRAD)
  • Johns Hopkins Sabbatical Fellow and Professorship Program
  • Teaching opportunities with the Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering

APL Postdoctoral Program

The APL Postdoctoral Program offers emerging scientists and engineers the chance to engage in independent research while contributing to high-impact projects in diverse areas including physical and life sciences, engineering, space exploration, and health. This program allows postdoctoral fellows to explore their own innovative research funded by Independent Research and Development grants, while also working alongside multidisciplinary teams in APL’s various sectors and departments.

Postdoctoral fellows can participate in the program for up to three years, with renewal on a yearly basis. Scholars benefit from mentorship opportunities, competitive compensation, and access to world-class resources and expertise across APL. Additionally, they are encouraged to network with their peers and explore career development opportunities within APL.

Upon completing the program, participants are encouraged to pursue further career options at APL, where they can continue contributing to impactful scientific and technological advancements.

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Featured Program
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Krimigis Postdoctoral Scholars Program →

The Krimigis Postdoctoral Scholars Program provides extraordinary scientists with the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge projects designed to advance the future of space science.


Learn more about Krimigis Postdoctoral Scholars Program
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Recruiting Events

Connect with us at an upcoming recruiting event to learn more about career opportunities at Johns Hopkins APL.

Upcoming Recruiting Events
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I am continually surprised by the breadth of expertise that can be found around the Lab. It seems that no matter what expertise is needed when writing a proposal or building a project team, it can almost always be found somewhere.

Morgana Ph.D. in Materials Science in Engineering
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Join Our Talent Community!

Joining APL’s Talent Community is a great way to learn more about the Laboratory, our culture, and future opportunities.

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