Research Scientist

Arena Technical Resources, LLC (ATR); Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Arena Technical Resources, LLC (ATR) is seeking a Research Scientist to support an innovative computing program. You'll evaluate program progress, provide critical feedback, and contribute to new program development.

The successful candidate will have a strong background in photonic materials, nonlinear problem solving, and demonstrable communication skills necessary for managing complex projects across multiple scientific domains.

Qualifications

• Expert knowledge in photonic and organic nonlinear materials.
• Strong background in nonlinear problem solving and optimization.
• Ability to learn unfamiliar areas quickly to support diverse projects.

Responsibilities

• Analyze R&D opportunities through literature review and community outreach.
• Generate agency documents required for program approval.
• Manage the program lifecycle and engage with partners.

Skills

Photonic and organic nonlinear materials and devices

Nonlinear problem solving

Generative AI

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Strong organization skills

Education

Master’s degree in a relevant Engineering or Science discipline

Job description

Job Title: Research Scientist

Location

Arlington, VA

Eligibility

Candidate must possess an active TS/SCI clearance

Job Description

The successful candidate will support the program manager (PM) on managing an innovative computing program from start to finish. In this capacity, the candidate will evaluate the technical progress of performers, provide feedback to the PM and to the performers, advise the PM on overall program planning, prepare summary briefing materials for the PM, and coordinate program reviews and meetings. The candidate will also support new program development by helping to address the Heilmeier criteria, performing background literature reviews and research, and preparing briefings and documentation.

Expert knowledge and experience in one or more of the following areas are desired: photonic and organic nonlinear materials and devices, coupled oscillatory states, quantum‑inspired devices, synthetic biology, as well as suitable interfaces between such technologies and conventional electronic transport methods. The candidate must also possess a strong background in nonlinear problem solving, optimization, generative AI, and other types of large‑scale processing algorithms to support the innovative computing approaches of interest and their end users.

Responsibilities

• Analysis of emerging science and technology R&D opportunities through literature review; outreach to the research community; summarizing, analyzing, and visualizing data in spreadsheet and graphical forms.
• Generating briefing materials and agency documents required for new program approval.
• Program management at all stages over the program lifecycle including BAA drafting; feedback on proposals; interactions with proposers and performers; meeting organization and participation; transition partner and industry partner engagement.
• Lead periodic performer assessments to analyze findings, assess technical and schedule risks; develop management strategies; communicate findings to program manager.
• Technical evaluations and guidance on reports, briefings, and other performer communications.
• Presentation and report preparation.
• Program administration, including development of technical analyses, identification of technology gaps, technical risk management, project cost estimation, technology transfer efforts, as well as supporting technical reviews.
• Attending and organizing program reviews/site visits/field tests.

Desired Capabilities and Characteristics

• Minimum of a master’s degree in a relevant Engineering or Science discipline.
• Knowledge and experience in one or more of the following areas: photonic and organic nonlinear materials and devices, coupled oscillatory states, quantum‑inspired devices, synthetic biology, as well as suitable interfaces between such technologies and conventional electronic transport methods.
• Strong background in nonlinear problem solving, optimization, generative AI, and other types of large‑scale processing algorithms.
• Outstanding attention to detail.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to quickly learn unfamiliar areas is needed to broadly support the PM’s portfolio spanning multiple domains of materials and microsystems.
• Self‑starter who is willing to both take the lead and provide support in a team role in a complex, fast‑paced, cross‑disciplinary work environment.
• Strong organization skills with the ability to multi‑task and respond to quick turn‑around requests.
• Flexible and readily adaptable to change.
• Demonstrated collaboration skills in a team atmosphere.
• Passion for science and technology.