Job Opportunities

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), a national leader in scientific research and development, is seeking an Aerosol Scientist to join our team.

At APL, we are passionate about delivering the right solutions to our government sponsors and end users. We are committed to integrity, honesty, and scientific excellence, and we strive to be a trusted, independent agent for the nation. In this role, you will:

• Work alongside creative, motivated problem solvers and life-long learners
• Tackle problems in biodefense, healthcare, and environmental monitoring
• Contribute to programs that directly strengthen the safety and security of our country
• Be part of a “One Team” environment of trust, transparency, collaboration, and accountability

Job Summary

Lead and contribute to research, development, and characterization projects in aerosol, atmospheric, and biological sciences aimed at understanding, detecting, and mitigating airborne chemical and biological hazards.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to and lead research, development, and characterization efforts involving aerosol, atmospheric, and biological sciences, as well as associated technologies. Application areas include biodefense, healthcare, and environmental monitoring.
• Design and conduct laboratory and field experiments, including development of test plans, integration and operation of aerosol and biological measurement systems, and collection, analysis, and interpretation of experimental data.
• Provide technical leadership by identifying and solving complex scientific and engineering challenges, guiding experimental activities, and contributing to the development of new research initiatives and proposals.
• Communicate technical findings clearly and effectively through written reports, sponsor briefings, peer-reviewed publications, and presentations to the broader scientific community.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or another field relevant to the duties as described above.
• Professional or Postgrad Experience with aerosol and/or atmospheric analytical equipment and laboratory methods, including hands-on experimental execution, troubleshooting, and data collection.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, along with excellent interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, apply careful and methodical work practices, and collaborate effectively within interdisciplinary teams of scientists and engineers.
• Are able to obtain a Secret level 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.

Desired Qualifications

• MS or PhD in a relevant field, such as aerosol science, atmospheric science, bioengineering, chemical engineering, environmental engineering, biology, or a related field.
• Strong peer-reviewed publication record.
• Experience designing, developing, and operating experimental systems for biological or chemical aerosol sensing, sampling, characterization, and laboratory or field testing.
• Experience with biological or chemical agent/simulant aerosols, biological detection technologies, toxicological or biological effects assessment, and associated laboratory safety practices.
• Knowledge of statistical data analysis, uncertainty quantification, and experimental design principles.
• Experience applying data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, or advanced analytics techniques to large or complex aerosol, atmospheric, or biological datasets.
• Demonstrated technical leadership experience in research, project coordination, or mentoring.
• Secret security clearance

Special Working Conditions

This position involves approximately two weeks of travel per year and work in Biosafety Level 2 and 3 (BSL-2 and BSL-3) laboratories.

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.