Press Release
Merkle Named Research and Exploratory Development Department Head at Johns Hopkins APL
As head of APL’s Research and Exploratory Development Department, Andrew Merkle will accelerate innovation and work collaboratively across APL to solve mission-critical challenges.
Credit: Johns Hopkins APL/Craig Weiman
The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, Maryland, has named Andrew Merkle as head of its Research and Exploratory Development Department (REDD).
In his new role, Merkle will lead REDD in accelerating innovation to develop disruptive technologies that tackle critical national challenges in partnership with APL’s sectors and mission areas. REDD conducts research and development for U.S. government sponsors such as the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, the Office of Naval Research, the National Institutes of Health and NASA, as well as internally funded research.
“As our nation navigates new and increasingly complex challenges, the work of APL is as vital as ever,” said Merkle. “I am honored to take on this role and work alongside our world-class team to drive the development of cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions that will have a significant impact on these challenges.”
Merkle previously served as the mission area executive for Research and Exploratory Development, where he led the creation of several significant research programs focused on national security. These initiatives included accelerating scientific discovery through artificial intelligence, operationalizing biotechnologies for national security and health, and developing new technologies to strengthen climate security. Merkle joined APL in 2000 as a biomechanical engineer and has since held several leadership positions, including program area manager and program manager.
“Andrew’s dedication to mission-focused R&D, broad technical expertise and strong leadership have led to new capabilities that address some of the most critical challenges facing our nation,” said APL Director Ralph Semmel. “In his new role, he will drive transformative research and continue to position APL at the forefront of innovation.”
Merkle is also chair of systems engineering in Johns Hopkins University’s Engineering for Professionals program, and has served as an adjunct professor at the University of Maryland. An accomplished researcher, he has published in leading biomechanics journals, authored patents on protective technologies and presented at prominent scientific forums.
Merkle holds a Doctor of Engineering in engineering management from George Washington University, an MBA from the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland, and both a Master of Science in engineering mechanics and Bachelor of Science in engineering science and mechanics from Virginia Tech.