Senior Experimental Astrophysicist

Are you interested in changing science fiction into reality for our national security in space?

Have you developed technologies related to adaptive optics to detect and study planets orbiting other stars in an effort to search for signs of life?

Are you passionate about learning about the latest optics and photonics technologies and finding new ways to use them?

Do you want to work with brilliant colleagues on challenging problems while still having work-life balance?

If so, we're looking for someone like you on our team at APL!

If you have a PhD in Physics or Astronomy and experience with experimental astrophysics, we'd love to have you join our team!
We are seeking a driven astronomer or physicist to help us continue designing, developing and assessing new space technologies for dual use in both civil and national security space. You'll be joining a hardworking team who balances independent work and team work on a variety of space-based projects. Our group maintains proficiencies in photonics, signatures, advanced technology applications, orbital engagements, space control concept assessment, autonomous operations, and multi-disciplinary optimization.

As a member of the APL team, your duties could include:
* Researching, designing, developing, and testing space remote sensing technologies
* Characterizing the performance of current, proposed and future space systems, sensors and constellations.
* Developing dual-use technologies for upcoming civil and national security space missions
* Engaging with sponsors to align technologies with sponsor needs
* Transitioning technologies from laboratory prototypes to space-based demonstrations
* Mentoring early career staff

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Have a PhD in Physics, Astronomy or a related technical field
• Are an expert in an area of research that can be applied to technologies or algorithms related to space control applications
• Are an expert in adaptive optics, stellar coronagraphs, and precision spectrographs or related technologies used to study exoplanets
• Are willing and able to occasionally travel to sponsor locations
• Can obtain TS/SCI level 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.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Have 15+ years of professional experience adapting new technologies or algorithms to space-based applications
• Have prior work experience in the space industry or academia
• Have an active TS/SCI clearance.

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 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.

APL is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. 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 promoting an innovative environment that embraces diversity, encourages creativity, and supports inclusion of new ideas. In doing so, we are 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 Accommodations@jhuapl.edu. Only by ensuring that everyone's voice is heard are we empowered to be bold, do great things, and make the world a better place.