Principal Project Manager

The Missions, Concepts, and Capabilities (MCC) Division of Applied Research Associates, Inc.

(ARA) is seeking a Principal Project Manager to lead a large multi-disciplinary team of engineers and scientists researching laser effects on human performance and laser eye protection solutions in a laboratory setting.  The team costs of technicians, scientists, engineers, modelers, veterinarians, animal handlers, among others.  Together they propose, lead, and run experiments and test campaigns to understand biological and cognitive effects from lasers or other directed energy sources on human performance.  Most of the work will take place onsite in US Government provided laboratory space. 

The Principal Project Manager leads and coordinates a large, multidisciplinary portfolio of laser and optical research programs focused on tissue damage, human effects, and vision-related bioeffects.

This position is responsible for the strategic planning, execution, and oversight of dozens of concurrent research projects conducted by government personnel, contractors, academic partners, and industry collaborators.

The candidate serves as the primary interface between the research organization and Department of Defense (DoD) laboratory stakeholders, ensuring technical alignment, fiscal discipline, schedule adherence, and mission relevance across the research portfolio.

This position is contingent upon award of a contract expected in Spring 2026.

Key Responsibilities


* Provide programmatic leadership for a broad portfolio of laser and optical bioeffects research projects addressing tissue damage, human effects, and vision hazards.


* Plan, prioritize, and balance research activities across multiple simultaneous efforts to meet organizational and DoD mission objectives.


* Develop, execute, and manage multi-year research budgets, including allocation of funding across projects, tracking expenditures, and forecasting resource requirements.


* Coordinate and integrate the work of researchers, engineers, scientists, and support staff across government, contractor, subcontractor, academic, and industry teams.


* Serve as the primary point of contact for DoD laboratory stakeholders, sponsors, and senior leadership, maintaining close and continuous communication.


* Translate stakeholder requirements into executable research plans, milestones, and deliverables.


* Monitor technical progress, risk, and performance metrics; implement corrective actions as required.


* Ensure compliance with DoD, Air Force, and laboratory policies related to human subjects research, animal research, safety, security, and ethical standards.


* Oversee preparation of technical reports, program reviews, budget submissions, and executive-level briefings.


* Foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and workforce development within the research organization.

Key Skills and Competencies


* Strong program and project management expertise in a rese...