Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)
Electromagnetic Simulation Scientist
Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), Laurel, Maryland, United States, 20724
Join Our Team as an Electromagnetic Simulation Scientist!
If you are passionate about building and running physics-based simulations, developing innovative optimization algorithms, or creating custom computational models, we want to hear from you!
Are you ready to tackle the challenges of designing cutting-edge electromagnetic and photonic devices that will influence the future of communications, sensing, and computing?
We thrive on collaboration and interdisciplinary innovation, where concepts transform into tangible prototypes and real-world applications.
At APL, our team of computational and experimental physicists and engineers is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology with innovative solutions for advanced devices, materials, and systems. As our newest Electromagnetic Simulation Scientist, you will play a vital role in contributing to current projects and exploring new research frontiers.
Your main focus will be to develop and apply computational models to design novel electromagnetic devices, including RF/optical metasurfaces, integrated photonics, and quantum computing hardware.
We value scientific excellence, encourage continuous learning, and foster open collaboration to tackle ambitious and rewarding projects. Your contributions will help drive research from simulation through fabrication to characterization and deployment. We also emphasize professional growth and mentorship.
Your Role:
Develop custom numerical models and optimization algorithms, or utilize commercial tools to predict complex phenomena and design advanced devices. Collaborate closely with engineers and experimentalists to fabricate prototypes and validate models with experimental data. Create design methodologies using emerging fabrication technologies such as grayscale lithography and additive manufacturing. Work with a multidisciplinary team of physicists, engineers, and technicians to gain insights into devices and the physical phenomena underlying them. Contributing to research and development ideas that explore emerging technologies for our sponsors. Publish your findings in technical publications and present at conferences to disseminate your research. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Physics, Engineering, or a related field with at least one year of relevant experience. Proficiency in programming languages such as MATLAB or Python, along with related packages for plotting and data handling. Foundational understanding of electromagnetics and optics. Experience in building physics-based simulations. Self-motivated and eager to learn, with a passion for solving challenging real-world problems. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Prior experience in a team-based research environment. Ability to obtain an Interim Secret security clearance by your start date, with the potential to ultimately achieve a Secret level clearance. Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship. Preferred Qualifications: Master's degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field. Strong expertise in electromagnetics or optics, particularly regarding devices like metasurfaces, sensors, or integrated photonics. Foundational knowledge in electronics, materials science, and device physics. Experience using full-wave electromagnetic simulation software such as CST, HFSS, Lumerical, or MEEP/MPB, or multiphysics software like COMSOL. Implemented advanced optimization algorithms (e.g., inverse design, adjoint optimization, machine learning-driven design) or developed custom numerical methods. Experience with high-performance computing (HPC) and developing scripted workflows for automation. Familiarity with chip layout design or preparing masks for circuit or nanostructure fabrication. Laboratory experience in fabrication, testing setup, and characterization. Contributions to technical publications, conference presentations, or research proposals. About Us: Why choose APL? The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is dedicated to solving our nation's critical defense, security, space, and science challenges. We are proud of our vibrant, inclusive culture where you can be your authentic self, grow in your career, and forge meaningful connections with enthusiastic colleagues. At APL, we celebrate diverse perspectives, encourage creativity, and welcome innovative ideas. Enjoy generous benefits including a robust education assistance program, excellent retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. Our campus is conveniently located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to personal characteristics protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. The pay range is based on good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors like location, work experience, and skill levels. APL provides a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision insurance, and more. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. The minimum annual salary is $100,000, with a maximum of $227,500.
Develop custom numerical models and optimization algorithms, or utilize commercial tools to predict complex phenomena and design advanced devices. Collaborate closely with engineers and experimentalists to fabricate prototypes and validate models with experimental data. Create design methodologies using emerging fabrication technologies such as grayscale lithography and additive manufacturing. Work with a multidisciplinary team of physicists, engineers, and technicians to gain insights into devices and the physical phenomena underlying them. Contributing to research and development ideas that explore emerging technologies for our sponsors. Publish your findings in technical publications and present at conferences to disseminate your research. Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Physics, Engineering, or a related field with at least one year of relevant experience. Proficiency in programming languages such as MATLAB or Python, along with related packages for plotting and data handling. Foundational understanding of electromagnetics and optics. Experience in building physics-based simulations. Self-motivated and eager to learn, with a passion for solving challenging real-world problems. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Prior experience in a team-based research environment. Ability to obtain an Interim Secret security clearance by your start date, with the potential to ultimately achieve a Secret level clearance. Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship. Preferred Qualifications: Master's degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field. Strong expertise in electromagnetics or optics, particularly regarding devices like metasurfaces, sensors, or integrated photonics. Foundational knowledge in electronics, materials science, and device physics. Experience using full-wave electromagnetic simulation software such as CST, HFSS, Lumerical, or MEEP/MPB, or multiphysics software like COMSOL. Implemented advanced optimization algorithms (e.g., inverse design, adjoint optimization, machine learning-driven design) or developed custom numerical methods. Experience with high-performance computing (HPC) and developing scripted workflows for automation. Familiarity with chip layout design or preparing masks for circuit or nanostructure fabrication. Laboratory experience in fabrication, testing setup, and characterization. Contributions to technical publications, conference presentations, or research proposals. About Us: Why choose APL? The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is dedicated to solving our nation's critical defense, security, space, and science challenges. We are proud of our vibrant, inclusive culture where you can be your authentic self, grow in your career, and forge meaningful connections with enthusiastic colleagues. At APL, we celebrate diverse perspectives, encourage creativity, and welcome innovative ideas. Enjoy generous benefits including a robust education assistance program, excellent retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. Our campus is conveniently located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to personal characteristics protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. The pay range is based on good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors like location, work experience, and skill levels. APL provides a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision insurance, and more. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. The minimum annual salary is $100,000, with a maximum of $227,500.