Bioelectronics Scientist/Engineer

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.  

The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.

The Acquisition and Technology Analysis Group within JOID provides the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) technical expertise for decision support to ensure technical overmatch for the U.S. Armed Forces against any potential adversaries. Our team of experienced military, technical, and operations research analysts is skilled exploring cutting-edge technology and helping government program managers evaluate, select, and manage research programs to transition promising technologies and ensure U.S. military forces retain technological superiority in the future.

SPA has an immediate need for a Scientist to support the development and management of current and planned programs at the intersection of materials science, synthetic biology, and bioelectronics onsite in Arlington, VA.

The candidate will support the development and management of current and planned DARPA Biological Technologies Office (BTO) programs at the intersection of materials science, synthetic biology, and bioelectronics. Planned programs aim to develop novel biological and biomimetic materials to support the Department of Defense (DoD). Ideal candidates will apply experience in bioelectronic methods as well materials science, with a strong focus on biological and bioinspired materials development, and will be capable of reviewing and assessing proposed materials-related concepts for scientific and technical merit. Will communicate complex scientific ideas to broad audiences, digest basic and applied research across areas of biology, bioelectronics, materials science, and materials chemistry, and explore scientific literature for emerging technologies and innovations.

Required:

• PhD in a field relevant to the support of bioelectronics, materials science, and/or synthetic biology-related programs, with a breadth of expertise to assess technologies across a broad range of applications
• Outstanding organization, communication, coordination, and time management skills, with the mature judgment required to advise senior government personnel
• 4+ years of experience
• Active Secret clearance with ability to obtain a TS clearance
• Published articles in a field of scientific, engineering, or technical expertise

Desired: 

• Experience managing R&D programs from inception to closeout
• Demonstrated ability to communicate program and technical requirements into strategy, acquisition, planning, and/or public release documents and correspondence in clear, concise, and compelling terms
• Experience creating and coordinating strategy and program overview documents, and developing briefings to technical and non-technical audiences