Senior Scientist - Biomaterials

Are you passionate about being on the forefront of discovery in the synthesis and characterization of biomaterials and biohybrid systems?

Are you excited about developing novel solutions to our Nation's challenges in the biological sciences?

The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), a national leader in scientific research and development, located midway between Baltimore and Washington, DC is seeking an experienced Biomaterials Scientist.

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team!

The Applied Biological Sciences Group (QLA), located within the Asymmetric Operations Sector (AOS), is committed to APL's mission to provide critical contributions to critical challenges. JHU/APL is seeking a Senior Scientist to lead impactful research at the forefront of biomedical engineering, drug delivery, and cellular systems modeling. The candidate will integrate deep technical expertise across biomaterials, micro and nanoparticle-based delivery platforms, tissue engineering, and microphysiological systems to advance solutions in human health, National Defense, and biosecurity. This role is ideal for a multidisciplinary leader passionate about developing new classes of therapeutics, diagnostics, and in vitro human models that bridge molecular-scale technologies with system-level applications. We are a hard-working team that tackles ambitious, multi-disciplinary problems that span scientific disciplines and engineering approaches. We believe in strong and collaborative relationships, and we strive to foster a work environment of safety, trust, confidence, teamwork, and accountability. We are passionate about getting the right solution to our sponsors and end users and are committed to integrity and honesty. We strive to be a trusted agent for the government and cultivate an environment of trust, transparency, and accountability. At APL, you will be among creative thinkers, motivated problem solvers, and life-long learners that want to strengthen the safety and security of our Nation and our warfighters.

As a Senior Biomaterials Scientist you will...

• Conduct applied research to understand the impacts of micro and nanoparticle exposures on human health.
• Synthesize organic and inorganic nano and/or micro-particles and assist in the development of novel formulations or synthesis methods for the delivery of different cargo types.
• Optimize particle systems with tunable properties (size, charge, surface functionality) for controlled release, tissue targeting, and immune modulation.
• Oversee fabrication and testing of advanced materials (e.g., hydrogels, electrospun scaffolds, bioprinted constructs) for use in sensors and in vitro systems and organ-on-chip platforms.
• Develop and utilize advanced in vitro models (organoids, microphysiological systems (MPS), and organ-on-chip platforms) to tackle sponsor challenges.
• Collaborate closely with biologists, chemists, data analysts, and engineers, performing experiments in support of a multi-disciplinary set of research areas (biodefense, healthcare, etc.).
• Serve as a lead on high-impact proposals, manage interdisciplinary teams, and contribute to strategy development for health and defense biotech portfolios.
• Mentor junior staff members to grow technical capabilities in the laboratory.
• Demonstrate technical expertise through designing and performing experiments, analyzing data, and writing technical reports.
• Publish and present experimental results to our sponsors and the broader scientific community.

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

• A PhD in Materials Science, Biomedical Engineering, Materials or Chemical Engineering, Biological or Chemical Engineering, Nanotechnology or another field relevant to the duties as described above.
• At least 5 years of experience working with organic or inorganic nanoparticles.
• Experience with micro/nanoparticle synthesis and characterization of biomaterials properties and performance.
• Experience working with molecular assays and 2D/3D in vitro cellular or organoid models to characterize cellular response to biomaterials.
• Strong written and verbal communications skills. Strong laboratory skills. The ability to manage multiple simultaneous assignments and changing priorities.
• Methodical, meticulous work practices and excellent interpersonal, logical reasoning, and organizational skills.
• The ability to work collaboratively in a team environment with scientists and engineers representing different backgrounds, skills, and experience levels.
• The desire to work in both BSL2 and Chemical laboratory environments.
• The ability to obtain a Secret security 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...

• A strong background in micro- and molecular-biology laboratory methods.
• Experience with microphysiological systems (MPS), microfluidics, and related fabrication methods.
• Experience with translational drug delivery studies.
• Experience with stem cell differentiation and organoid culture systems
• Demonstrated success in technical leadership, research funding acquisition, publication, and mentorship.

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 .

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 ... .

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.