Internship - Analyst, Modeling and Simulation

Do you want to help develop the next generation of air combat systems and strike weapons?

Do you enjoy contributing to a collaborative team, solving technical challenges, and learning from leading engineers, scientists, and analysts?

If so, you should join the Air Combat and Strike Mission Analysis Group!

Our team is seeking interns to build models, run simulations, and analyze results to help evaluate the performance and military effectiveness of air combat systems and strike weapons. You will collaborate with a team of engineers and analysts who perform innovative research, modeling, and analysis that fuels decision-making across a range of military applications.

• Work side-by-side with our analysts to build, validate, and refine physics-based models of aircraft, missiles, and sensors, implementing propulsion, aerodynamics, and guidance dynamics using AFSIM
  , C++, Python, and MATLAB
• Apply AFSIM (Advanced Framework for Simulation, Integration, and Modeling) and other modeling and simulation tools to analyze air combat and precision strike missions in contested environments
• Process real-world data sets, spot performance trends, define uncertainty bounds, and develop clear visualizations and reports that turn raw data into actionable insight
• Prepare and communicate findings through briefs and presentations to multidisciplinary teams and leadership
• Receive mentorship and participate in events within a culture of integrity, confidence, teamwork, and fun to grow professionally and prepare for a career in defense, aerospace, or related fields

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

• Are pursuing a B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Operations Research, Statistics, or another related technical field
• Can break down sophisticated technical challenges and deliver workable solutions
• Understand programming basics and software development protocols
• Can work collaboratively in groups and take ownership of independent tasks
• Have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 GPA scale (unofficial transcripts are acceptable)
• Are a U.S. Citizen, can obtain an Interim Secret security clearance by your start date, and can ultimately obtain a Secret Level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information

• Have experience with air or space systems, remote sensing and tracking, or high-performance simulations
• Have familiarity with statistical analysis and modern software development practices (e.g., Git, CI/CD, version control)
• Published relevant papers, conference presentations, or open-source contributions
• Are proficient with MATLAB, Python, C++, AFSIM, or other DoD simulation frameworks
• Have an Active Security Clearance

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…