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 Projects
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Cislunar Science and Technology
APL is making critical contributions to the development of cislunar infrastructure to ensure our nation’s security interests are protected, support development of a sustainable cislunar presence, and advance pioneering science. -
Space Weather
APL is a leader in space weather science, observations, and modeling—particularly in understanding the drivers of solar activity, the role Earth’s magnetosphere plays in protecting us, and the response of the upper atmosphere to solar variability.
Related News
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News
Mar 13, 2024Three Johns Hopkins APL Staff Members Honored for STEM Excellence
Three APL staff members received honors for excellence in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) as a part of the Black Engineer of the Year Awards (BEYA) at the 2024 BEYA STEM Conference, held Feb. 15-17. -
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Feb 14, 2024Johns Hopkins APL Tackles Military Sleep Deprivation With Innovative Smart Tool
APL’s high-tech solution to combat sleep problems in the military monitors and enhances sleep in real time, potentially boosting overall health and cognitive abilities. -
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Jan 25, 2024Wilson, Chen Honored With Women of Color Awards
Two Johns Hopkins APL staff members were recognized with 2023 Women of Color STEM awards. The annual awards honor promising innovators and inventors who have made an impact in their respective disciplines while also demonstrating a commitment to mentoring and encouraging women in STEM fields. -
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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. -
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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.