2025 PhD Graduate - Postdoctoral Researcher in Materials For Extreme Environments

Are you passionate about pioneering the development of materials designed to withstand extreme environments?

Do you thrive on advancing synthesis, processing, and characterization techniques to push the boundaries of material performance?

Are you excited to apply your expertise in ceramics and metals to innovative research projects with real-world impact?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

Our team is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in Materials for Extreme Environments to lead the development and characterization of advanced materials. This role involves designing initial synthesis approaches for novel ceramic and metallic materials, scaling production through additive manufacturing and hot isostatic pressing (HIP), and characterizing material properties with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). As part of our team, you will contribute to groundbreaking research that advances our understanding of materials under extreme conditions.

As a Postdoctoral Researcher in Materials for Extreme Environments, your responsibilities will include:

• Developing initial synthesis plans for innovative ceramic and metallic materials, optimizing properties to withstand extreme conditions.
• Scaling synthesis techniques for advanced materials using additive manufacturing processes and hot isostatic pressing.
• Characterizing material structure and properties using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to assess performance in challenging environments.
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to apply your findings toward practical applications in defense, aerospace, and energy sectors.
• Documenting and presenting research outcomes to both technical and non-technical audiences, contributing to publications and conferences.

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you:

• Possess a Ph.D. in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, with a focus on materials for extreme environments.
• Have experience with ceramic and metallic material synthesis and processing techniques.
• Are skilled in additive manufacturing and hot isostatic pressing (HIP) for materials scaling.
• Demonstrate expertise in scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for material characterization.
• Have strong organizational and analytical skills, and are able to communicate findings effectively to diverse audiences.
• Are able to work independently and as part of a collaborative team environment.

• Are able to 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. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

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

• Have experience developing materials specifically for high-temperature or high-stress applications.
• Are skilled in additional characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) or transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
• Have a track record of publication in peer-reviewed journals on topics related to advanced materials synthesis and characterization.
• Demonstrate an innovative approach to research and a strong commitment to advancing the field of materials science.

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 www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

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.

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.