Chaunda Stewart

Chaunda Stewart serves as a key procurement professional within the National Institutes of Health Office of Acquisition and Logistics Operations (OALO), supporting the agency’s mission to advance biomedical research through strategic acquisition of specialized scientific infrastructure. Responsible for managing complex contracting actions, Stewart oversees the procurement of high-precision electromedical devices, diagnostic systems, and laboratory instrumentation critical to NIH’s research ecosystem. Their work ensures timely delivery of mission-critical equipment and services that enable cutting-edge life sciences discovery, with a strong emphasis on compliance, technical specification alignment, and risk mitigation in high-stakes research environments. Stewart maintains consistent contracting relationships with specialized manufacturers and engineering firms, including FOREIGN POLICY RESEARCH INSTITUTE INC and ONTIC ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING, INC, both of which provide niche technical capabilities in medical device fabrication and research support services. These partnerships reflect a preference for vendors with demonstrated expertise in regulatory-compliant manufacturing, quality systems (ISO 13485), and custom engineering solutions for biomedical applications. The working relationships are characterized by long-term collaboration, technical engagement during requirements development, and performance-based contract management. A strong advocate for small business participation, Stewart consistently prioritizes Small Business Set-Aside contracts under FAR 19.5, with 75% of acquisitions reserved for small businesses. This reflects a deliberate socioeconomic strategy to expand access for qualified small manufacturers and innovators in the life sciences supply chain, fostering competition and innovation while meeting stringent technical requirements. The procurement portfolio is heavily concentrated in NAICS 325412 (Pharmaceutical Preparation Manufacturing), 339113 (Surgical Appliance and Supplies Manufacturing), 339112 (Surgical and Medical Instrument Manufacturing), and 334510 (Electromedical and Electrotherapeutic Apparatus Manufacturing). This specialization underscores deep technical expertise in procuring precision medical devices, diagnostic tools, and laboratory-grade equipment used in clinical research, drug development, and translational science.