Description
The Missions, Concepts, and Capabilities (MCC) Division of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking to contingently hire a Biologist 2 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
Strong knowledge of cellular and tissue biology, histology, and related biological processes
Hands-on experience with microscopy techniques, specimen preparation, and imaging workflows
Familiarity with handling animal tissues and working in an animal research environment
Ability to follow detailed experimental protocols and maintain precise records
Proficiency with 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 in Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Anatomy, Physiology, or a related discipline and a minimum of 5 years of experience OR Masters degree in Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Anatomy, Physiology, or a related discipline and a minimum of 3 years of experience
3-5 years of experience in laboratory environments performing biological sample preparation and microscopy
Familiarity with animal research processes and basic handling protocols
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.
Experience supporting controlled animal experiments in a regulated research environment.
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 2 position.
Qualifications
Behaviors
Required
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
Required
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
Education
Required
Bachelors or better in Biology
Preferred
Masters or better in Biology
Experience
Required
3-7 years: Experience in a laboratory environment
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 (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.
