
Independent Research and Development
A cornerstone of innovation at APL
From a multitiered grant system and robust research and leadership development programs to leading-edge collaboration initiatives and workspaces, Johns Hopkins APL fuels creativity and new ideas at every level.
Our Independent Research and Development (IRAD) program is a cornerstone of innovation at the Laboratory. These investigations, proposed by APL staff members as individuals or as teams, are focused on strengthening the Laboratory’s technical competencies and our national defense research capabilities through basic and applied research, system and concept formulation studies, and development, with dissemination of results.
Managed by APL’s mission areas, IRADs allow funding for APL staff members to pursue ideas that are not currently funded by sponsors but address domains or areas of interest to the Laboratory and the nation. Many IRAD projects have matured into sponsored work that has had real impact on our nation.
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A Culture of Innovation
Innovation at APL is woven into everything we do. Learn more about the wide-ranging innovation programs and initiatives designed to encourage and fund our staff members in their exploration of ideas, inspirations, and drive to discover.
Related News
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News
Nov 21, 2023A Career of Taking Risks Earns Johns Hopkins APL Researcher National Data Fusion Award
APL engineer Andy Newman was presented with the Joe Mignogna Data Fusion Award at the Military Sensing Symposia, National Security Sensor and Data Fusion conference. -
News
Oct 3, 2023Enabling Military Decision-Making at Operational Tempo
By applying algorithmic approaches used to help robots navigate terrain and perform tasks, scientists at Johns Hopkins APL are enabling the military to automate key facets of tactical decision-making, ensuring the U.S. can maintain its competitive edge well into the future. -
News
Sep 13, 2023Johns Hopkins APL Intern Develops Wearable Haptic Prototype
Ben Otter, an intern in APL’s Air and Missile Defense Sector and the Johns Hopkins Institute for Assured Autonomy, has been using his free time to develop a wearable haptic prototype. -
News
Jul 19, 2023Breakthrough Metasurface Materials Tech Unleashes Enhanced Control for Advanced Telecommunications and Beyond
Johns Hopkins APL researchers have developed a revolutionary metasurface materials technology that enables precise control over electromagnetic signals, offering potential for improved communications in crowded environments and promising advancements in telecommunications and low-power sensing applications. -
Press Release
Jul 11, 2023Johns Hopkins APL Earns Fifth Straight Selection to Fast Company’s Best Workplaces for Innovators List
For the fifth year in a row, APL has been named by Fast Company as one of the Best Workplaces for Innovators in 2023, placing 17th among a list of the top 100 innovative companies from around the world.