B--DNA SEQUENCING

The U.S. Geological Survey Eastern Ecological Science Center is seeking a qualified small business to perform DNA sequencing of PCR amplicons derived from environmental DNA extracted from filtered seawater samples, with the goal of determining taxonomic composition. This requirement is issued as a Competitive Request for Quotations under solicitation number 140G0126Q0162 as a Total Small Business Set Aside under NAICS code 541380, with a size standard of $19 million in annual revenue. The contract includes a one-year base period with four optional one-year extensions. All sequencing must be performed in-house using an Illumina NovaSeq 6000 platform with 2x250 bp configuration and SP flowcells, achieving a minimum of 75% of bases with a quality score of Q30 or higher. Deliverables include demultiplexed fastq files after each sequencing run, with full analysis results provided to the EESC in Laurel, Maryland within 60 days of sample receipt. The provider must conduct quality control on incoming libraries, notify the principal investigator within 72 hours of any damaged shipments, and inform the client if input material fails to meet quality thresholds before proceeding. Offerors must have at least 15 years of experience providing genomic shotgun and amplicon sequencing services, including documented work for federal research laboratories. Registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) with an active UEI number under NAICS 541380 is mandatory at the time of award, and small businesses must disclose any applicable small disadvantaged status such as HUBZone, 8(a), SDVOSB, WOSB, or EDWOSB. Responses must be submitted via email to Mindie Dixon at mindie_dixon@ios.doi.gov by June 30, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Mountain Time, with questions due by June 22, 2026, at the same time, and an anticipated award date of July 10, 2026.