AI/ML Autonomous Biologist

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 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. Translate cutting-edge artificial intelligence, machine learning, active learning algorithms, and robotic automation architectures into technical oversight, proposal evaluation, and performer management for programs developing autonomous, closed-loop "self-driving laboratories" and AI-designed biological systems. Evaluate the algorithmic integrity, efficiency, and scalability of performer-developed closed-loop autonomous science platforms. Apply deep technical knowledge of modern AI architectures to evaluate performer-designed biological structures and networks. Establish and monitor rigorous computational benchmarks to assess the validity and generalizability of performer AI/ML models. Translate rapid advancements in AI/ML and automation into strategic DARPA program formulations. Conduct highly technical evaluations of machine learning architectures, training datasets, and hardware-automation integration plans submitted in response to Broad Agency Announcements (BAAs).QualificationsRequired:Master's degreeActive Secret clearance9+ years of relevant work experience in cutting-edge artificial intelligence, machine learning, active learning algorithms, and robotic automation architectures into technical oversight, proposal evaluation, and performer management for programs developing autonomous, closed-loop "self-driving laboratories" and AI-designed biological systemsAble to report to Arlington, VA up to full-time Desired:Active TS/SCI 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 $168,000.00/Yr. - USD $198,000.00/Yr.Job SummaryID: 2026-23688Category: Engineering & Technical ServicesSecurity Clearance Requirement: SecretType: Regular Full-TimeLevel: Mid-level