Foundational AI Research Lead with Security Clearance - Laurel, United States - Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory

Description

Are you an established researcher currently pursuing ground-breaking innovations in artificial intelligence (AI)? Do you have a vision for how to close the gaps preventing large language models and other forms of generative AI from being trusted in critical applications? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment? If so, we're looking for someone like you to join the Artificial Intelligence Group within JHU/APL's Research and Exploratory Development Department (REDD).

We are one of four groups in the Intelligent Systems Center (ISC) with expertise in Neuroscience, Robotics, AI, and Complex Systems.

The AI Group conducts pioneering AI research with mission intent; we aim for game-changing innovations that can broadly impact the role AI plays in national security, health, and space exploration missions.

We are seeking an experienced researcher who is motivated to lead pioneering research in foundational AI and interdisciplinary efforts with these other fields.

As a Foundational AI Research Lead * Your primary responsibility will be to contribute to and/or lead research in artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML), including (but not limited to) foundation models, large language models, multimodal embeddings, conversational systems, human-machine teaming, and/or generative AI.

* You will team with other researchers in the ISC to grow and define foundational AI research within the broader scope of intelligent systems for applications of national importance.

* You will cultivate a long-term vision for your own research and collaborate on technical proposals for internal and external support to bring that vision to reality.

* You will communicate your research vision, results, and impact to Government sponsors and the broader scientific community through publication and presentation at high-impact venues.

Qualifications You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you... * Have a Ph.
D. or equivalent degree in a relevant scientific, mathematics, or engineering field.

• Have 5+ years of relevant professional experience in AI research, and demonstrated ability to define fundamental research problems motivated by real-world applications.
• Have demonstrated the ability to gain support for your ideas, such as by writing technical proposals.
• Have strong Python programming skills and are familiar with commonly used AI/ML libraries such as PyTorch and the HuggingFace stack, including the transformers library.
• Have a record of scholarly publication in peer-reviewed journals or conferences.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level 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 with project management or leading small teams.

• Have experience developing AI/ML algorithms for specific national security applications.
• Already hold a DoD security clearance.

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 About Us 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 .

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.