Senior Synthetic Biology & Gene Editing Advisor

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc.; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. in Arlington, VA seeks a Synthetic Biologist to provide onsite support, advising DARPA PMs, evaluating breakthrough biology concepts, and shaping ambitious R&D programs.

You will combine deep gene editing expertise with executive presentation skills, produce technical analyses, and help ensure program milestones meet security, biosafety, and regulatory requirements. A Secret clearance is required and full-time onsite work is expected.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s in Synthetic Biology, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, Genetics, Biochemistry, or related field.
• 3+ years hands-on or advisory experience in modern gene editing modalities (CRISPR/Cas, base editing, prime editing).
• Familiarity with gene drive architectures or synthetic genomic circuits or novel cell-free/in vivo synthetic biology methods.
• Active Secret clearance.
• Able to report to Arlington, VA up to full-time based upon client needs.

Responsibilities

• Advise DARPA Program Managers (PMs) as a trusted technical and programmatic advisor; evaluate breakthrough biology concepts and assist in structuring ambitious R&D programs.
• Monitor multidisciplinary performer teams and communicate high-risk, high-reward impacts to senior DoW leadership.
• Provide in-depth technical analyses of proposals, white papers, and ongoing DARPA projects in synthetic biology and genetic biocontrol.
• Draft and edit program lifecycle documentation (BAAs, Technical Descriptions, Source Selection plans, SOWs).
• Translate complex biochemical concepts into executive briefings and compelling visuals; track milestones to flag risks or delays.

Skills

CRISPR systems

Gene editing

Secret clearance

Executive briefing

Education

PhD or Master’s in Synthetic Biology or related field

Job description

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. in Arlington, VA seeks a Synthetic Biologist to provide onsite support, advising DARPA PMs, evaluating breakthrough biology concepts, and shaping ambitious R&D programs.

You will combine deep gene editing expertise with executive presentation skills, produce technical analyses, and help ensure program milestones meet security, biosafety, and regulatory requirements. A Secret clearance is required and full-time onsite work is expected.