66 -- Real Time PCR Instrument

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) plans to issue a sole source purchase order to BIO-RAD Laboratories for a Real-time PCR Instrument essential for developing multiplex PCR assays targeting up to five markers in water samples. This instrument must support multiplexing of five fluorophores, perform gradient block PCR to optimize assays, and use a single detector to gather fluorescence signals. The CDC has determined that BIO-RAD is the only provider capable of fulfilling these specialized technical requirements, and as such, the procurement will be executed under the sole source authority provisions of FAR 6.302-1 and 6.302-2 without issuing a public solicitation. The purchase is not designated as a small business set-aside, and no other sources are deemed suitable to meet the CDC’s performance needs. Although no solicitation will be formally released, any information submitted will be reviewed solely for informational purposes. Contractual inquiries can be directed to Beth W. West, the designated procurement technician at the CDC. The contract is referenced under the number 000HCRS2-2006-32093 and was posted on June 8, 2006.