Biochemistry Scientist

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 chemistry, biochemistry, and bioengineering (onsite in Arlington, VA).

The candidate will support a government Program Manager at DARPA BTO in the development and management of programs focused on research into: (1) photo-switchable drug development (2) study of neural communication pathways and (3) interventional strategies to improve warfighter resilience to occupational stressors like sleep deprivation. Will apply well-versed expertise in organic chemistry either in the synthesis of small molecules or photo-active molecules. Apply additional research experience in the development and synthesis of photo-active molecules for therapeutic applications. 

Required:

• PhD in a field relevant to the support of chemistry, biochemistry, and biomedical engineering, with a breadth of expertise to assess technologies across a broad range of applications
• Well-versed in organic chemistry either in the synthesis of small molecules or photo-active molecules
• Active Secret clearance with ability to obtain a TS clearance
• 4+ years of experience
• Strong oral and written communication skills, with the mature judgment required to advise senior government personnel
• Ability to coordinate disparate, parallel tasks related to different programs

Desired: 

• Prior FDA regulatory experience or government contracting support experience, preferably development of new-start programs, source selection, and interactions with program performers at ARPA organizations

• Additional research experience in the development and synthesis of photo-active molecules for therapeutic applications either in an academic or industry laboratory
• 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