In accordance with the authority set forth under 41 U.S.C. 253(c)(1) as set forth in FAR 6.302-1, NIEHS intends to negotiate with Research Triangle Institute (RTI), on a sole source basis, to expand the Phase I, short-term reproductive toxicity study under contract number HHSN291200775564C, entitled Reproductive Assessment by Continuous Breeding (RACB) awarded on May 1, 2007. The objective of the Phase I study is to assess the specific abilities of RTI to perform those factors stated in the Statement of Work which include: 1) perform the protocol, 2) obtain the anticipated result(s), 3) adhere to approved protocols, 4) demonstrate appropriate record keeping procedures, 5) diagnose problems, and 6) evaluate results. In order to effectively perform the assessment the Government finds the expansion from a single generation study to a three generation study scientifically necessary; the expansion will provide a greater amount of data and allow for a more detailed and powerful assessment of the Phase I study. The expansion involves increasing the level of effort, cost, and period of performance currently afforded to the Phase I, short-term study of a single generation of test animals, to allow for the level of effort necessary to perform a multi generation study for three generations of test animals. The newly defined Phase I study will increase the period of performance from January 31, 2008 to December 31, 2008. If RTI performs the Phase I study in an acceptable manner, the Government intends to exercise Option 1 for reproductive toxicity testing of NTP test articles at the estimated rate of 5-8 per year for a period of performance of five years. The incumbent contractor, RTI, has the unique capability to provide the required services to NIEHS for continuation of this study due to their unique capabilities in areas such as: technical approach, qualified personnel, and management plans necessary to perform this highly specialized requirement. Inherent duplication of cost to the Government and unacceptable delays in completing the project make competition unfeasible for this study. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals. Interested parties may identify their interest and capabilities in response to this synopsis. The determination by the Government not to compete the proposed contract based upon responses to this notice is solely at the discretion of the Government.POC Juanita A. Campbell, Contracting Officer, Phone 919-541-7893, Fax 301-451-5594, Email campbellj @niehs.nih.gov See Numbered Note 22.
