Anomalous Health Incidents Principal Scientist

ARA•Alexandria, VA

About The Position

The Mission Concepts and Capabilities (MCC) Division of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking to contingently hire an Anomalous Health Incidents (AHI) Principal Scientist for ARA’s effort supporting the Office of the Assistant Secretary of War for Critical Technologies (OASW(CT)). This position will support the Critical Technology Area (CTA) offices within OASW(CT). This work requires a candidate with a strong background in the scientific Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) ecosystem and experience relevant to Anomalous Health Incidents (AHI). This position is contingent upon award of a contract in June 2026. Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is an employee-owned international research and engineering company providing technically superior solutions to complex problems in the physical sciences. Founded in 1979, ARA employs over 2000 professionals across offices in the United States and Canada, offering expertise in defense and civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. ARA values its employee-owners, fostering creativity, initiative, and high performance through tools, training, and opportunities for active roles as owners. The company culture encourages innovation and experimentation, and employees are eligible for contributions through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

Requirements

PhD in a relevant hard science/engineering (e.g., physics, materials science, biomedical engineering, biology, neuroscience, electrical engineering, computer science)
8+ years of relevant scientific or technical experience in the RDT&E sector, including work performed in government, industry, or academia
Experience must demonstrate the ability to lead complex technical assessments and scientific analysis
This position requires TS/SCI eligibility with CI polygraph. Candidates must maintain this clearance for the duration of employment

Nice To Haves

15+ years of relevant scientific or technical experience in the RDT&E sector
Experience in DoW science and technology programs, emerging technology assessment, and cross‑agency technical coordination
Expertise includes biomedical science, biosurveillance, physiological or health‑related sensing, biological threat analysis, or AI/ML applied to medical or biological data
Experience supporting the Office of the Secretary of War and Critical Technology Areas (CTAs)

Responsibilities

Lead technical assessments
Lead research evaluation
Provide significant subject‑matter expertise (SME) in AHI
Coordinate with Service and interagency SMEs to cultivate productive partnerships that advance OASW(CT) priorities and objectives
Develop solutions to complex problems which require use of creativity, ingenuity, and innovation
Ensure work is consistent with organizational objectives
Conduct briefs and technical meetings for internal and external representatives
Perform other duties as required