Biological Scientist

Biological Scientist

Chippewa Government Solutions LLC, a Sault Tribe Inc. (“STI Federal”) company, is searching for a dynamic and skilled Biological Scientist to be a key part of our expanding team!

Who We Are & What We Do…

At STI Federal, we drive growth through strategic government contracting, fulfilling our mission to support the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. Our company reinvests 100% of its profits into tribal businesses or community programs, enhancing the well-being of over 52,000 tribal citizens. Our work empowers federal agencies and strengthens some of the nation’s most critical initiatives, while fostering opportunities for skilled professionals to make a meaningful impact.

What You’ll Do…

As a Biological Scientist (I, II, or III), you will support laboratory operations by conducting applied research, developing and validating diagnostic assays, characterizing viral pathogens, and supporting vaccine development activities. Responsibilities scale by level, with higher levels performing more complex analyses and providing training and technical leadership.

Key Responsibilities & Expected Outcomes

• Develop and validate diagnostic sequencing assays.
• Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Propagate and maintain influenza viruses and other respiratory pathogens.
• Perform virological methods such as: viral stock preparation, cloning, isolation, and inactivation.
• Conduct HI tests, plaque assays, 50% EID assays, TCID50 assays, RTPCR, and next generation sequencing (NGS).
• Conduct research in BSL2 Enhanced/Plus and BSL3 Enhanced/Plus laboratories.
• Perform QC testing and laboratory assays.
• Process and maintain cell culture lines.
• Provide overarching lab support and maintain laboratory logistics, inventory, and compliance.
• Document and maintain records of experiments, laboratory inventories, and data.

• Accurately collect, collate, and enter data into laboratory databases.
• Report findings to scientific leads.
• Identify, characterize, and catalog circulating strains of animal influenza viruses.
• Evaluate serological, immunological, and genetic assays for identifying drug-resistant variants.
• Conduct in vitro and animal model studies.
• Develop new methods for constructing candidate vaccine viruses (CVVs).
• Support clinical trial activities through study design, data collection, and analysis.
• Support field studies evaluating licensed vaccine effectiveness.
• Train junior laboratory staff.
• Support team based scientific and operational workflows.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities for Success

• Demonstrates a dedication to upholding and enhancing STI Federal’s core values.
• Excels in a collaborative team environment, fostering positive relationships and contributing to shared goals with professionalism and mutual respect.
• Strong background in molecular biology techniques (e.g., ELISA, RTPCR, NGS, cloning).
• Experience working in microbiological or molecular laboratories.
• Experience with cell culture maintenance and viral assays.
• Ability to follow strict timing and biosafety guidelines, including work in BSL2E/BSL3E.
• Excellent organizational, documentation, and recordkeeping skills.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.

• Experience with data analysis tools, including Microsoft Excel.

Minimum Qualifications 

• Education: BA/BS in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, or related field.
• Experience:Experience in virology/wet laboratory techniques including sample processing, cell culture, viral propagation, and molecular assays.
• Clearance: Ability to obtain/maintain a Public Trust clearance.   

Preferred Qualifications 

• Education: MS or PhD ina biologicalscience.
• Experience: 2–4 years of experience in virology, immunology, research, clinical studies, B-cell studies, or ferret studies involving influenza.
  • Prior work with animal models, influenza virus characterization, or diagnostic development.
• Clearance: CDC Public Trust clearance

Work Environment 

• Environment: Work will be performed in a climate-controlled office or laboratory setting

STI Federal is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Qualified applicants are considered for employment regardless of age, disability, ethnicity/race, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or veteran status. Native American preference applies when candidates meet qualifications equally.

STI Federal participates in the Electronic Employment Verification Program. Learn more about E-Verify.