Aerosol Scientist

Overview

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

• Craft and lead research, development and characterization projects in aerosol, atmospheric, and biological sciences to detect, mitigate airborne chemical and biological hazards.
• Design, set up, and conduct laboratory and field experiments, develop test plans, and integrate aerosol and biological measurement systems.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, applying statistical methods, data science, or machine learning where applicable.
• Provide technical leadership, identify and solve complex scientific challenges, manage resources and guide interdisciplinary teams.
• Communicate findings through written reports, sponsor briefings, peer‑reviewed publications, and presentations.

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, or another relevant field.
• Professional or postgraduate experience with aerosol and/or atmospheric analytical equipment and laboratory methods, including hands‑on experimentation and troubleshooting.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with excellent interpersonal, organizational, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and collaborate within interdisciplinary teams.
• U.S. citizenship and eligibility to obtain a Secret‑level security clearance.

• MS or PhD in 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, detection technologies, toxicological or biological effects assessment, and associated 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 aerosol, atmospheric, or biological datasets.
• Demonstrated technical leadership in research, project coordination, or mentoring.
• Existing Secret clearance.

The position involves approximately two weeks of travel per year and work in Biosafety Level 2 and 3 laboratories.

Robust education assistance program, generous retirement contributions, and comprehensive health, dental, vision, life insurance, long‑term disability, short‑term disability, flexible spending accounts, paid time off, and other benefits. Base pay ranges from $100,000 to $245,000 annually, with potential bonuses and relocation benefits at JHUAPL’s discretion.

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 characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities.

If you require accommodation, please contact Accommodations.