Computational Biologist/Cell Simulation

OverviewSystems 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.SPA provides critical decision support to enabling and executing a strategy of technological superiority and enabling the delivery and sustainment of secure, resilient, and preeminent capabilities to the warfighter quickly and cost effectively. Our team of experienced military, technical, and operations research analysts is skilled in evaluating military problems, identifying the driving factors, devising innovative approaches, collecting applicable data, developing necessary software tools, and performing thorough and timely assessments to inform technology and acquisition governance decisions to ensure U.S. military forces retain military superiority in the future.We have an immediate need for a Computational Biologist to provide onsite support out of Arlington, VA.ResponsibilitiesThe candidate will provide advanced subject matter expertise and programmatic support to DARPA BTO Program Managers leading computational biology and predictive modeling initiatives. Translate multiscale biological network modeling, algorithmic software engineering, machine learning pipelines, and high-performance computing (HPC) architectures into rigorous technical oversight, performer code review, and simulation validation for programs building whole-cell predictive in-silico models of complex microbial systems. Evaluate the mathematical formulation, algorithmic soundness, and computational scalability of performer-developed whole-cell simulation platforms. Apply strict data science, statistical analysis, and verification protocols to performer simulation outputs. Manage the computational and software integration pathways between modeling performers and Independent Verification & Validation (IV&V) environments.QualificationsRequired:Master's degree in related fieldU.S. Citizen and eligible for a Secret clearance9+ years of work experience in computational biology and predictive modeling initiatives with demonstrated ability to make decisions independently on R&D engineering problems and methodsAbility to work fully onsite in Arlington, VADesired:Active Secret clearanceExperience, background, and knowledge of one or more DARPA programsPay Range InformationAt SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $160,000.00/Yr. - USD $198,000.00/Yr.Job SummaryID: 2026-23692Category: Engineering & Technical ServicesSecurity Clearance Requirement: SecretType: Regular Full-TimeLevel: Mid-level