Computational Biology Specialist

Overview:

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.

 

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 Biology Specialist to provide onsite support out of Arlington, VA.

Responsibilities:

We are seeking an analytical, proactive, and technically grounded Scientific, Engineering, and Technical Assistance (SETA) consultant with foundational training in bioinformatics, genetic modeling, population biology, and computational analysis of CRISPR and engineered gene drive systems. Working alongside experienced Senior SETAs and DARPA Program Managers (PMs), the candidate will evaluate complex in silico models, analyze performer computational pipelines, and support the programmatic execution of cutting-edge biological defense programs. Apply strong computational foundations, rigorous data presentation abilities, and an active interest in learning DoD R&D processes, biosecurity frameworks, and scientific program management. Support Program Managers in evaluating computational architectures, population genetics models, and predictive simulations of gene drive dynamics (e.g., homing, suppression, threshold-dependent drives). Assist in reviewing performer-submitted models predicting CRISPR-Cas target recognition, guide RNA off-target probabilities, DNA repair outcomes, and evolutionary escape/resistance mechanisms. Conduct literature analyses and benchmarking of environmental and ecological dispersal models used to assess biocontainment, gene flow, and population suppression in target species. Review computational biology data packages, next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis pipelines, and genomic datasets generated by university and national laboratory performers. Assist in validating whether performer data meets quantitative program metrics, reproducibility guidelines, and established quality-control standards. Track emerging open-source bioinformatics tools, genomic databases, and modeling suites relevant to synthetic biology and biodefense. Translate complex computational models, bioinformatics pipelines, and stochastic simulation data into clear, intuitive briefing slides using Microsoft PowerPoint. Construct clean visual schematics representing model workflows, ecological scenarios, and program milestone roadmaps for DoD leadership. Assist in organizing and facilitating Principal Investigator (PI) review meetings, technical interchanges, and stakeholder workshops.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Master’s degree or PhD in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Biomathematics, Population Genetics, Quantitative Ecology, Bioengineering, or a related quantitative life sciences field.
• 8 years of experience in mathematical or computational modeling of biological systems (e.g., population genetics, differential equation models, stochastic simulations, or agent-based modeling).
• Foundational knowledge of CRISPR-Cas systems, engineered gene drives, and modern gene editing mechanisms.
• Working proficiency with programming languages and analysis tools commonly used in quantitative biology (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB, or bash scripting).
• Familiarity with standard bioinformatics workflows and high-throughput sequencing data analysis.
• Strong written communication skills, with experience preparing technical reports, documentation, or scientific manuscripts.
• High proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint, with a focus on clear visual data presentation and technical schematic design.
• Active Secret clearance.
• Able to report to Arlington, VA up to full-time based upon client needs.

Desired:

• Active TS/SCI clearance.
• Prior experience with specialized modeling platforms for gene drives and spatial ecology (e.g., SLiM, MGDrivE, or spatial population dynamic simulations).
• Familiarity with ecological risk assessment frameworks, environmental containment protocols, or biosafety regulations surrounding genetically modified organisms.

Pay Range Information: At 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 $170,000.00/Yr. - USD $205,000.00/Yr.