Description
Are you interested in contributing to efforts that help us learn about the planets and moons in our solar system, even if you’ve never worked on space systems before?
The Dragonfly mission team is seeking a Student Guest Investigator to help design and develop a prototype machine that fabricates non-flight harnesses and test cables used during spacecraft integration and testing.
We’re seeking Master’s and PhD students majoring in the physical sciences, computer science, mathematics, or engineering who are strong problem-solvers and eager to apply their skills to real-world challenges.
This is a two-year hybrid commitment and you must remain actively enrolled for the full two-year duration of the project. Some work may be performed remotely during the academic year; however, summer work is conducted in person.
This is your opportunity to contribute to a mission to Saturn’s largest moon, Titan, while building, testing, and developing systems that directly support spacecraft integration.
Project Overview
Dragonfly’s custom mission architecture requires custom-built ground support equipment (GSE), test hardware and software. This project focuses on developing a prototype harness-building machine capable of constructing simple, custom, non-flight cables used in testbeds and engineering units.
You will work alongside integration and testing engineers, harness technicians, and testbed engineers to research, design, build, and test a functional prototype.
As a Student Guest Investigator, you will:
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Learn current Dragonfly harness fabrication processes
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Analyze end-to-end harness assembly and testing workflows
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Study GSE harness, testbed cable, and adapter cable designs
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Interpret harness drawings, work orders, connector types, and wiring configurations
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Develop mechanical, electrical, and software designs for a prototype machine
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Present trade studies, cost estimates, and design concepts to a review board
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Generate parts lists and procure materials
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Assemble and test the prototype independently
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Demonstrate automated harness fabrication and pin-to-pin continuity testing for specified cable configurations
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Document development progress, technical challenges, and time tracking for mentor review
Location: The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)
Key Dates
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Application Deadline: May 29, 2026
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Selections Announced: September 30, 2026
Qualifications
You must meet all of the following minimum qualifications:
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Currently pursuing a Master’s or PhD in physical sciences, computer science, mathematics, or engineering at a U.S. institution and must remain actively enrolled for the full two-year duration of the project
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Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research or development
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Experience in at least one of the following:
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Software development
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Electrical engineering
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Mechanical engineering
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Mechatronics
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Strong written and verbal communication skills
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Ability to work both independently and within a technical team
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To access APL’s facilities and networks, U.S. Citizenship is required.
Above and beyond the minimum requirements:
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Experience with hardware design and software testing
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Background in electrical engineering, computer engineering, industrial engineering, manufacturing, robotics, or mechatronics
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Experience building or prototyping mechanical or automated systems
Application Requirements
Submit the following materials:
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1–2 page cover letter (per project applied to)
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Most recent transcripts (unofficial is fine)
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Curriculum Vitae (CV), including hardware and software project experience
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Faculty Mentor Requirement
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Applicants must provide a name and contact information for their faculty advisor at their home institution along with a 2–3 sentence statement from that faculty advisor confirming that if the student is selected:
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They will provide a workspace, internet access, facilities, etc. at their home institution so that the student can work on their Dragonfly project and communicate with the Dragonfly team during their 2-year tenure as a Guest Investigator
- They will remotely attend the Fall 2026 Guest Investigator Kickoff Meeting (mid–late October)
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They understand that this is a part-time, supplemental research project that does not replace their student’s M.S. or PhD research
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 http://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
[email protected].
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
$22.60 Hourly
Maximum Rate
$47.95 Hourly
