Intern - Physics; Research and Exploratory Development

Position: 2026 Intern - Physics (Research and Exploratory Development)
Description

Are you passionate about applying physics to solve complex, real-world problems in support of our nation's most critical missions?

If you are excited to work in an innovative, collaborative environment tackling challenges in defense, space, security, and advanced technology development, we would love to have you join our team.

The REDD Physics Group (R1B) brings together expertise across a broad range of physics-driven disciplines, including quantum science, electromagnetics, optics and photonics, sensing, advanced materials, modeling and simulation, and emerging technologies. We work at the intersection of theory, computation, and experiment to develop impactful solutions for national security sponsors.

We seek talented and motivated students to contribute to cutting-edge research and development efforts spanning fundamental physics to applied system prototyping. We foster an open, technically rigorous, and highly collaborative work environment, with opportunities to explore multiple technical domains.

As a Physics Intern in the REDD Physics Group, you may:

* Support research in areas such as quantum science, electromagnetics, optics, sensing, advanced materials, or related physics-based technologies.

* Develop and implement computational models and simulations to analyze physical systems.

* Assist with laboratory experiments, hardware integration, data collection, and performance characterization.

* Analyze experimental or simulated data and present findings to internal technical teams.

* Contribute to prototype development, algorithm design, or system-level performance assessments.

* Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to identify and address emerging technical challenges using physics-based approaches.

Qualifications

You'll meet our minimum requirements if you:

* Are pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in physics, electrical engineering, mathematics, computer science, materials science, or a related technical field.

* Have experience with scientific computing (e.g., Python, MATLAB) or programming languages such as C/C++ or Java.

* Are motivated to learn new tools, technologies, and experimental or computational methods.

* Work effectively in small, multidisciplinary teams.

* Have US citizenship or permanent resident status which is required to access APL's facilities and networks, subject to applicable laws.

You'll go above and beyond if you have:

* Coursework or research experience in one or more relevant technical areas (e.g., quantum science, electromagnetics, optics, signal processing, modeling and simulation, advanced materials, or sensing technologies).

* Experience with high-performance computing, numerical methods, or large-scale data analysis.

* Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation such as oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, power supplies, vector network analyzers, optical test equipment, or related tools.

* Experience designing, building, or testing hardware or experimental systems.

About Us

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 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 more about our career opportunities at http://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

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 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.

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…