The Missions, Concepts, and Capabilities (MCC) Division of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking to contingently hire a Biologist to join a multi-disciplinary team of engineers and scientists researching laser biological effects and laser eye protection solutions in a laboratory setting. The Biologist supports experimental investigations of laser–tissue interactions using animal models and advanced microscopy techniques. This role involves preparation and handling of biological specimens, participation in controlled animal studies, and execution of optical imaging workflows to assess tissue responses, injury mechanisms, and recovery processes. The biologist works closely with physicists, engineers, veterinarians, and research staff to ensure scientific rigor, proper documentation, and full compliance with ethical and regulatory requirements. Most of the work will take place onsite in US Government-provided laboratory space in San Antonio, TX.

This position is contingent upon ARA securing a contract, customer acceptance of the candidate’s resume, funding of the biologist position, security clearance, and successful background check. The Air Force has announced that it expects to make an award in the summer of 2026.

Responsibilities

• Support and participate in laser exposure experiments on animal tissue under approved protocols.
• Prepare biological samples for histology, microscopy, and quantitative analysis
• Operate and maintain microscopy systems (e.g., brightfield, fluorescence, confocal, multiphoton) to assess tissue structure, pathology, and cellular responses
• Perform imaging, staining, sectioning, and sample preparation workflows according to established laboratory procedures
• Collect, organize, and analyze biological data; assist in interpreting experimental results
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records, including specimen tracking, imaging logs, and experimental notes
• Assist with the development, refinement, and documentation of standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Ensure compliance with Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) protocols, biosafety requirements, and laboratory safety regulations
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, and technicians
• Contribute to technical reports, presentations, and publications

Key Skills and Competencies

• Knowledge of cellular and tissue biology, histology, and related biological processes
• Hands-on experience with microscopy techniques, specimen preparation, and imaging workflows
• Ability to follow detailed experimental protocols and maintain precise records
• Experience using imaging analysis tools (ImageJ, FIJI, or equivalent)
• Strong laboratory organization, documentation, and quality-control skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary research teams
• Strong communication skills for documenting observations and supporting technical reporting

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Anatomy, Physiology, or a related discipline
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a laboratory environment performing biological sample preparation and microscopy
• Demonstrated ability to follow safety, biosafety, and ethical guidelines in laboratory research
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance

Preferred Qualifications

• MS or PhD in a relevant technical discipline.
• Experience with DoD laboratories.
• Familiarity with animal research processes and basic handling protocols.
• Training or certification in animal care or handling (e.g., AALAS certification).
• Experience with advanced imaging modalities such as confocal or multiphoton microscopy.
• Existing TS or TS/SCI clearance

COMPANY INFORMATION:

Applied Research Associates, Inc. is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM, in 1979, currently employs over 1200 professionals. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. The corporation also provides sophisticated technical products for environmental site characterization, pavement analysis, and robotics.

At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership fosters greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives its employees the tools, training, opportunities, and freedom to grow and pursue work that they are passionate about. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are eligible for contributions which not only add to the company’s success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The motto, “Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit” sums up the ARA experience. For additional information and an opportunity to join this unique workplace, please visit our website at www.ara.com.

Please apply at www.careers.ara.com for the Biologist position.

Experience

• 2 - 4 years: Experience in laboratory environment

Education

• Bachelors or better in Biology or related field

Behaviors

• Team Player: Works well as a member of a group
• Innovative: Consistently introduces new ideas and demonstrates original thinking
• Functional Expert: Considered a thought leader on a subject
• Enthusiastic: Shows intense and eager enjoyment and interest
• Detail Oriented: Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well
• Dedicated: Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity

Motivations

• Self-Starter: Inspired to perform without outside help
• Growth Opportunities: Inspired to perform well by the chance to take on more responsibility
• Ability to Make an Impact: Inspired to perform well by the ability to contribute to the success of a project or the organization

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.