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Entry Level Phd Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

T-Rex Solutions, LLC

CNO Developer 3

Hanover, MD · On-site

$124K - $170K/yr

... experience OR PhD and 8+ yrs experience • Proficiency in Python and C/C++ programming • ... Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer (PCEP) or C++ Certified Professional Programmer ...

T-Rex Solutions

CNO Developer 3

Hanover, MD · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

... experience OR PhD and 8+ yrs experience. * Proficiency in Python and C/C++ programming ... Relevant industry standard certifications such as Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer (PCEP) or ...

T-Rex Solutions

CNO Developer 3

Hanover, MD · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

... experience OR PhD and 8+ yrs experience. * Proficiency in Python and C/C++ programming ... Relevant industry standard certifications such as Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer (PCEP) or ...

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Entry Level Phd information

What are entry level PhD jobs?

Entry level PhD jobs are positions designed for individuals who have recently completed their doctoral studies and are beginning their professional careers. These jobs typically require advanced research, analytical, or technical skills developed during a PhD program and may include roles in academia, industry, government, or nonprofit sectors. Examples of entry level PhD jobs include postdoctoral researcher, data scientist, research scientist, policy analyst, and consultant. While the specific requirements and responsibilities vary by field, these positions offer opportunities to apply specialized knowledge and begin building a professional track record.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level PhDs transitioning from academia to industry roles?

Entry-level PhDs often encounter challenges adjusting to the faster-paced, results-oriented environment of industry compared to academia. Adapting to collaborative, cross-functional teams and learning to communicate technical findings to non-expert stakeholders is crucial. Additionally, shifting focus from independent research to project-based work with clear deliverables may require new time management and prioritization skills. However, these challenges present excellent opportunities for professional growth and skill development in a supportive team setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level PhD professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level PhD professional, you need advanced research skills, subject matter expertise, and a doctoral degree in your field. Familiarity with specialized software, statistical tools, and laboratory or data analysis systems is commonly required depending on the discipline. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and a collaborative mindset help set you apart in multidisciplinary environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for driving innovation, contributing to complex projects, and integrating effectively into research or industry teams.

What is the difference between Entry Level Phd vs Research Assistant?

AspectEntry Level PhdResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsPhD or near completionBachelor's or Master's, sometimes pursuing PhD
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research labs, universitiesResearch labs, academic institutions, industry
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, some industry R&DUniversities, government agencies, private sector
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles for PhD holdersEntry-level research roles for those with advanced degrees

Entry Level Phd positions typically require candidates to have completed or be close to completing a PhD, often working in academic or research environments. Research Assistants usually hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree and support research projects. While both roles involve research activities, Entry Level Phd roles are geared toward recent PhD graduates or candidates, whereas Research Assistants often have less advanced degrees but support similar research tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Phd jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Phd jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Phd jobs in Washington, DC?

For Entry Level Phd jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Phd jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Phd jobs in Washington, DC are:

Entry Level Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Phd job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

2027 PhD Graduate - Rotational Discovery Program

Laurel, MD • On-site

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratoryexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Description
Do you love to solve complex engineering, analytical, or research problems?
Are you interested in exploring different domains such as defense systems, undersea warfare, cyber operations, and national security analysis?
If you are a recent or soon-to-be graduate with a PhD in a STEM field and a desire to make critical contributions to critical challenges, we'd love to have you join our team!
We are seeking talented and highly motivated entry-level PhD technical staff members to join the Discovery Program, APL's two-year rotational program. The program offers a unique opportunity for recent PhD graduates, those who graduated in or after May 2026 or those soon to be awarded their PhD by the Discovery Program begin date of May 2027 to July 2027, to gain valuable experience across multiple technical areas. You will have the opportunity to develop your skills while exploring a breadth of professional interests. You will apply innovative solutions to our nation's critical challenges, collaborate with experts, and develop a strong foundation for your career.
Selected candidates must have the ability to begin the Discovery Program between May and July 2027. Specific start dates will be coordinated based on degree completion, organizational needs, and onboarding schedules.
As a member of the Discovery Program, you will...
  • Contribute to a varied set of projects, employing and honing a wide range of skills to meet unique mission needs.
  • Collaborate with technical experts to drive impact.
  • Accelerate your technical and professional development through targeted training, mentorship, and hands-on experience.
  • Innovate through a dedicated Innovation Challenge Project, where you'll design and pitch a solution to a complex technical problem.

Common disciplines and example technical areas:
  • Electrical Engineering
    • signal processing, telecommunications, control systems, RF and electromagnetics, electrical systems, instrumentation
  • Computer Science/Computer Engineering
    • software engineering, hardware engineering, cybersecurity, networking, data science, modeling and simulation, embedded systems, artificial intelligence
  • Mathematics
    • statistics, data science, data analysis, modeling and simulation, numerical analysis, algorithm development, operations research
  • Physics
    • data analysis, algorithm development, optics and photonics, environmental physics, experimental physics
  • Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
    • modeling and simulation, mechanical design, thermodynamics and heat transfer, fluid mechanics, solid mechanics, mechatronics, dynamics and controls
  • Systems Engineering
    • software engineering, digital engineering, model-based systems engineering, modeling and simulation

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a PhD in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering, mathematics).
  • Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. Are able to provide unofficial or official transcripts during the application process.
  • Have strong technical experience, as proven through demonstrated impact in at least one internship, research experience, or project outside of the classroom.
  • Have demonstrated initiative that has enabled excellence in technical projects, professional experiences, or extracurricular activities.
  • Thrive in a collaborative team environment with strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Have demonstrated the ability to quickly contribute to projects in technical areas that are new to you.
  • Are interested in solving complex research, engineering, and/or analytical problems that present critical challenges to U.S. government agencies including the Department of War.
  • Are comfortable conducting work in support of the Department of War, including offensive military systems.
  • Are able to acquire an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately acquire 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 engaged in multiple internships, research experiences, or projects outside of the classroom.
  • Have leadership experience.

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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