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Cognitive Science Phd Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Umd

Experimental Psychologist

College Park, MD

$150K - $200K/yr

Master's or PhD in human factors psychology, experimental psychology, cognitive neuroscience, or related discipline with foundational knowledge of behavioral science research methods. Experience ...

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Cognitive Science Phd information

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$26.6K

$65K

$86.6K

How much do cognitive science phd jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for cognitive science phd in Washington is $65,026.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,400.00 and $70,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What careers with a cognitive science PhD?

A cognitive science PhD prepares individuals for careers in research, academia, human-computer interaction, user experience design, artificial intelligence, and data analysis. Graduates often work as university professors, research scientists, UX researchers, or in roles involving cognitive modeling and machine learning, utilizing skills in experimental design, programming, and statistical analysis.

Is a cognitive science PhD worth it?

A cognitive science PhD can be valuable for careers in research, academia, or specialized industry roles such as AI development or human-computer interaction. However, it requires significant time and financial investment, and job prospects often depend on research experience, interdisciplinary skills, and the ability to publish or present findings.

What is the difference between Cognitive Science Phd vs Data Scientist?

AspectCognitive Science PhdData Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Cognitive Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Data Science, Computer Science, or related field; some roles prefer PhD
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, industry R&DTech companies, finance, healthcare, consulting
Industry UsageResearch, academia, AI development, cognitive modelingData analysis, predictive modeling, machine learning applications

While both roles involve analytical skills and data handling, a Cognitive Science Phd focuses on understanding human cognition, often in research or AI development, whereas a Data Scientist applies statistical and machine learning techniques to solve business problems across various industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cognitive science PhD, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cognitive Science PhD, you need a strong interdisciplinary background in psychology, neuroscience, computer science, linguistics, and philosophy, typically supported by advanced research experience and a doctoral degree. Proficiency with data analysis tools (such as Python, MATLAB, or R), neuroimaging software, and statistical modeling is commonly required. Exceptional critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills help you collaborate across disciplines and convey complex ideas clearly. These skills are vital for driving innovative research, publishing impactful work, and contributing to advancements in understanding human cognition.

What are some common interdisciplinary collaborations for cognitive science PhD students, and how do they impact research projects?

Cognitive Science PhD students frequently collaborate with researchers in fields such as psychology, neuroscience, computer science, linguistics, and philosophy. These interdisciplinary teams enhance research by providing access to diverse methodologies, data sources, and theoretical perspectives. Collaborating across disciplines can lead to innovative approaches and more comprehensive findings, though it also requires strong communication and adaptability to integrate different research traditions. Such experiences are highly valued in both academia and industry, as they build versatile problem-solving skills and foster a collaborative mindset.

Is cognitive science in demand?

Cognitive science PhDs are increasingly in demand in fields such as artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, and data analysis. Employers value skills in research, programming, and understanding of human cognition, leading to opportunities in academia, industry, and research institutions.

What is a cognitive science PhD?

A Cognitive Science PhD is a doctoral degree focused on the interdisciplinary study of the mind and intelligence. This field combines elements from psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, computer science, philosophy, and anthropology to understand how humans and other intelligent systems perceive, think, learn, and behave. Students in a Cognitive Science PhD program typically conduct original research, develop expertise across multiple disciplines, and prepare for careers in academia, industry, or government. The degree usually takes between 4 to 6 years to complete and culminates in a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field.
What are popular job titles related to Cognitive Science Phd jobs in Washington? For Cognitive Science Phd jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in Washington are hiring for Cognitive Science Phd jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Cognitive Science Phd job openings:
Cognitive Science Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cognitive Science Phd job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,026 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

2026 PhD Graduate - Neural and Cognitive Engineering Researcher

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 73 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you passionate about designing systems or algorithms using what we know about the mind and brain?
Do you want to help invent the future of how people interact with intelligent systems?
If you are graduating with a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, or a related subject area, we'd love to have you join our team!
We are seeking a researcher to contribute to and lead pioneering work in connectomics, neural interfaces, neurally-inspired artificial intelligence, and/or neurobehavioral research. We are a large multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists engaged in groundbreaking research in applied neuroscience, artificial intelligence, robotics, and complex systems. We are looking for a motivated and collaborative teammate to support research and development of intelligent systems as a strategic advantage for the nation.
As a Neural and Cognitive Engineering Researcher...
  • Your primary role will be developing algorithms and/or systems in domains spanning connectomics, neural interfaces, neurally-inspired artificial intelligence, and/or neurobehavioral research.
  • You will make an impact as an emerging leader on a multi-disciplinary research team, collaboratively leading and conducting pioneering research with government and commercial partners.
  • You will collaborate with engineers and scientists to design and perform human subjects research, machine learning, software development, and/or biomedical signal processing.
  • You will communicate key findings both internally across teams and externally to sponsors, including in proposal development.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, or a related discipline
  • Have classroom or professional experience developing software and/or data analysis scripts
  • Have classroom or professional experience conducting research on connectomics, neural interfaces, neurally-inspired artificial intelligence, and/or neurobehavioral research
  • Are able to obtain a final Secret level 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 classroom or professional experience developing and/or implementing machine learning algorithms applied to biomedical data, including but not limited to neurophysiological data
  • Have experience working on a fast-paced government-funded effort (e.g., DARPA project).
  • Have a Secret level security clearance or above.

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 https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
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 Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
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.
Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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