Apply for NEXUS | Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security

NEXUS is for recent graduates of bachelors programs, and early- and mid-career professionals interested in hands-on work with quantum technologies in secure, mission-focused environments.

Applications should:

Be enrolled in or recently graduated from an undergraduate/graduate STEM degree program (Physics, Engineering, Math, Computer Science, or related fields)
Demonstrate interest in quantum technologies and applied research
Be a U.S citizen and be willing to pursue SECRET and TOP SECRET clearance
Have the ability to commit to full time, in person employment at ARLIS

Applications are accepted through Workday.

After creating an account, you will need:

Resume
Copy of your transcript
Two letters of reference

NEXUS participants receive paid research and training opportunities, with compensation levels based on relevant experience.

What is Maryland Quantum NEXUS (NEXUS)?
- NEXUS is ARLIS’s employer-driven quantum workforce development initiative that provides participants with a structured pathway into Maryland’s quantum ecosystem, focusing on practical skills, real-world experience, and security readiness.
How is NEXUS different from other traditional academic programs?
- NEXUS complements, not competes with, Maryland's academic programs. Universities develop foundational knowledge through degrees and certificates. NEXUS accelerates workforce readiness through applied training, industry and laboratory rotations, employer-recognized digital credentials, and professional mentorship. The NEXUS will grow the local education and training ecosystem with local partners, from which UMD students and other trainees will be able to benefit.
How does NEXUS connect participants with the quantum community?
- NEXUS connects participants with industry, government, and applied research partners, giving them early exposure to organizations working at the forefront of quantum technologies.
What kind of learning experiences does NEXUS provide?
- Participants receive mentored, experiential learning through laboratory training, industry rotations, and applied projects in real-world quantum environments. Along the way, they develop technical and professional competencies while earning employer-recognized digital credentials that document demonstrated skill mastery.
Are there opportunities for internships or early career roles?
- Yes. Selected participants become ARLIS employees during the program and gain experience through laboratory rotations and projects with industry, government, and research partners. These experiences prepare participants for internships, full-time employment, and long-term careers within Maryland's quantum ecosystem.
What kinds of careers can NEXUS help participants pursue?
- NEXUS opens doors to high-impact careers across the Maryland and national quantum ecosystem including roles in industry, government, defense, national security, and applied research.
What do participants earn through NEXUS?
- Participants progress through sequenced training and earn employer-recognized digital credentials that verify demonstrated technical and professional skills. These credentials provide participants with a portable record of achievement while giving employers confidence in the competencies participants have mastered.
Does NEXUS support security clearances for participants?
- Yes. NEXUS sponsors participants for SECRET and TOP SECRET security clearances, positioning them to contribute to sensitive and mission-critical quantum work across Maryland’s innovation landscape. Security clearance eligibility is solely determined by our Intelligence & Security sponsors.