68--Freezer Program Chemicals & Reagents

The PCO-EAST office plans to enter into sole source negotiations with the VA Affiliate University of Maryland Baltimore to provide the Freezer Program, which supports ongoing VA-funded research projects. These research studies are intricate and proprietary to the VA, requiring specialized supplies listed in the attachment. This notice is not a solicitation for competitive proposals, but interested parties who believe they can supply the requested items must notify the Contracting Officer by the specified deadline, January 12, 2016, by noon EST, via email only. Telephone notifications will not be accepted. After reviewing any expressions of interest, the Contracting Officer will decide whether to proceed with a competitive procurement or continue with the sole source agreement. The contract relates to the purchase of chemicals and reagents under solicitation number VA26816Q0059, with a NAICS code of 325413 indicating chemical manufacturing. The supplies are intended for highly specialized, VA-approved research projects, emphasizing the unique and proprietary nature of the work. The process underscores the agency’s intent to negotiate directly with a preferred provider due to the specific requirements of the research, while still allowing for the possibility of competitive bidding should other qualified suppliers express interest within the stipulated timeframe.