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Internship Mathematical Physics Jobs in Washington

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Internship Mathematical Physics information

What is an internship in mathematical physics?

An internship in mathematical physics is a temporary position, often held by students or recent graduates, that provides practical experience working on research or projects at the intersection of mathematics and physics. Interns may assist with theoretical research, computational modeling, data analysis, or literature reviews, typically under the guidance of experienced scientists or professors. These internships help participants gain hands-on skills, expand their professional network, and explore potential career paths in academia or industry. They are commonly available at universities, research institutes, and some technology companies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an internship in mathematical physics?

To thrive in an Internship in Mathematical Physics, you generally need a strong background in mathematics and physics, supported by progress toward a relevant degree. Familiarity with programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), mathematical modeling software, and data analysis tools is often required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are key soft skills that help interns excel in collaborative and research-driven environments. These skills and qualifications are essential for contributing to complex projects, understanding theoretical concepts, and translating findings into practical solutions.

What types of projects can I expect to work on during a mathematical physics internship?

As a Mathematical Physics intern, you will typically work on research-driven projects that involve modeling physical systems, analyzing complex data, or developing computational simulations. These projects often require collaboration with faculty, postdocs, or other interns, and you may contribute to ongoing experiments or theoretical studies. It's common to use programming languages such as Python or MATLAB and to present your findings in group meetings or seminars, gaining valuable experience in both independent and collaborative research settings.

What is the difference between Internship Mathematical Physics vs Research Assistant in Physics?

AspectInternship Mathematical PhysicsResearch Assistant in Physics
Required CredentialsUndergraduate or early graduate level, strong math and physics backgroundGraduate degree or pursuing a master's/PhD in physics or related field
Work EnvironmentAcademic labs, research institutions, internshipsUniversity labs, research projects, academic or government institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, industry internshipsUniversities, research labs, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding internship opportunities in mathematical physicsExploring research roles in physics for career development

Internship Mathematical Physics typically targets undergraduate or early graduate students seeking practical experience in mathematical physics, often through internships. Research Assistant in Physics usually involves graduate students or those pursuing advanced degrees working on specific research projects. While both roles involve physics research, internships focus on learning and exposure, whereas research assistant positions involve contributing to ongoing research efforts.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mathematical Physics jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Mathematical Physics jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Internship Mathematical Physics jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Internship Mathematical Physics job openings:

Infographic showing various Internship Mathematical Physics job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution.

2026 PhD Graduate - Autonomous Systems Design Engineer: Controls, Navigation, Sensors, and Simulatio

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


Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description
Do you enjoy problem solving and applying your skills across a broad range of applications and research?
Do you have a passion for the design, analysis, simulation, and prototyping of innovative autonomous systems and algorithms?
If so, the Strike Guidance, Navigation, Controls (GNC), and Seekers group is looking for PhDs who are pursuing degrees in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or Computer Science. Our group's goal is to ensure the United States has a distinct technology advantage in autonomous systems by leading next generation development and prototyping. We do this by providing world class design solutions with a focus on:
  • Guidance, Navigation, and Controls
  • Radio Frequency (RF) or Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) Sensors
  • Modeling and Simulation (M&S)
  • Hardware/Software Development and Test
  • Multi-Disciplinary Design Optimization

We are seeking creative problem solvers with capabilities and interests to join our team in taking on a breadth of technical challenges. We work on a variety of systems including: hypersonic missiles, submarines, cruise missiles, and autonomous flight vehicles. We are committed to developing exceptional talent and supporting a culture of innovation, and as part of our group you will have the chance to grow your expertise across these technologies.
As a PhD member on our team you will...
  • Have the opportunity to pioneer design and research in guidance, navigation, and control algorithms in support of the full lifecycle development of advanced systems.
  • Develop innovative models for simulating and analyzing a variety of complex physics and sensors.
  • Test the capability of software and algorithms within an embedded systems environment.
  • Apply multi-disciplinary optimization techniques for early phase vehicle designs.
  • Develop software to support sophisticated simulation and algorithm development.
  • Collaborate with a team of engineers and interact with government sponsors.

Our team works on a set of subject areas that feed into the design of an autonomous system. The following sections provide some more background on those unique areas:
Guidance, Navigation, and Control
  • We provide world class expertise in the areas of guidance, navigation, and control to support the full life cycle development of vehicles both as partners with contractors as well as in the development of our own prototype systems.
  • Types of work: Advanced algorithm research and development and application of algorithms to flight test systems
  • Degrees: Electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, mathematics
  • Skills: Guidance, inertial navigation, modern/adaptive control, classical control, optimization

Radio Frequency and Electro-Optical/Infrared Sensor
  • We develop sensor and seeker solutions for advanced autonomous systems and weapons.
  • Types of work: RF and EO/IR system design, sensor and seeker performance analysis and M&S, and receiver signal processing
  • Degrees: Electrical engineering, physics, mathematics, and computer science/engineering
  • Skills: Electromagnetic wave propagation, RF antennas, optics, signal and image processing, radar, programming/coding

Modeling and Simulation
  • We apply a wide range of skills to the development of multi-physics simulations for a broad range of concepts. We also use the models to analyze multi-disciplinary design problems.
  • Types of work: Multi-disciplinary vehicle design optimization and analysis, high fidelity physics-based simulation modeling, algorithm development, simulation software architecture
  • Degrees: Mathematics, physics, engineering, computer science/engineering
  • Skills: Dynamics, programming/coding, algorithms, optimization

Hardware/Software Development and Testing
  • We support sensor testing and characterization in conjunction with hardware-in-the-loop analysis for prototype systems advancing towards flight tests.
  • Types of work: Hardware-in-the-loop development, sensor characterization, embedded systems
  • Degrees: Computer science/engineering, electrical engineering
  • Skills: Hardware testing, embedded systems, software

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the internship if you...
  • Are pursuing a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering Systems Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or Computer Science.
  • Proven internship experience or possess extensive classroom project work in a subject matter in any of the following areas: guidance, inertial navigation, modern/adaptive control, classical control, optimization; electromagnetic wave propagation, RF antennas, optics, signal and image processing, radar, programming/coding; dynamics, programming/coding, algorithms, optimization; hardware testing, embedded systems, sensor testing artificial intelligence and software development.
  • Are skilled in or have knowledge of coding practices in Matlab/Simulink, C++, Python, or other languages
  • Have a curiosity and appetite for exploring and solving hard problems.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret 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.
  • Have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale. Note: When prompted to upload attachments, please include a copy of your college transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable).

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have professional experience developing and analyzing control/dynamical systems or sensors.

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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