Ontologist

About the role

The Threat Analytic Systems (QAI) Group at APL seeks talented staff to provide groundbreaking capabilities that bridge the gaps between data, real-world events, and prediction of events of national importance. We are looking for individuals who can work as part of a team to develop ontologies and apply them to mission needs.

Responsibilities

• Work with software engineers and data scientists to build ontologies and capabilities for applied national security mission needs.
• Engage stakeholders to determine ontology requirements.
• Craft ontology content with subject matter experts.
• Implement quality assurance and validation practices.

Qualifications

• Minimum: Bachelor's degree in a field relevant to Ontology (Philosophy, Computer Science, Cognitive Science, Public / Social Policy, Mathematics, Logic, Linguistics).
• Relevant degree fields may include Philosophy, Computer Science, Cognitive Science, Public / Social Policy, Mathematics, Logic, or Linguistics.
• Proficient with OWL, RDFs, RDF, SPARQL, domain ontologies, ontology editors (TopBraid Composer, Protégé, ROBOT), or ontology editing software packages (rdflib, Apache Jena, Sesame, RDF4J).
• Ability to work with loosely defined or high-level requirements, multiple dynamic projects, and evolving national security requirements.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated initiative, ability to work independently or within a team environment, and excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Able to obtain a TS/SCI+poly level security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in a field relevant to Ontology (Philosophy, Computer Science, Cognitive Science, Public / Social Policy, Mathematics, Logic, Linguistics).
• Experience working with software engineering teams to deliver ontology-driven software features.
• Experience building domain ontologies based on a top-level ontology.
• Experience weighing tradeoffs between semantic expressivity and project-specific implementation strategies.
• Experience with BFO, CCO, SOSA/SSN, Time Ontology, OBO Foundry, Dublin Core, SKOS, QUDT, GeoSPARQL, SHACL, SPIN, Git, Python, machine learning, natural language processing, or normalization/integration of heterogeneous data sources.
• Coursework in data structures, databases, metaphysics, knowledge representation, algorithms, mathematical logic, mereotopology, or software programming.

About Us

At APL, we bring world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space, and science challenges. We celebrate diversity and foster a culture where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates. We offer 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. Join us and make a difference!