High-Sensitivity Antigen Detection Technology Development

The contract seeks the development of highly sensitive antigen detection platforms capable of achieving NAAT-level sensitivity between 1 and 10 picograms per milliliter, designed specifically for point-of-care, CLIA-waived, or at-home settings. The technology must integrate sample-to-answer functionality with built-in signal amplification mechanisms to enable accurate, rapid, and reliable diagnostic results without requiring laboratory infrastructure or specialized personnel. Emphasis is placed on creating user-friendly, scalable, and robust systems suitable for deployment in diverse environments outside traditional clinical labs. The solicitation, issued by the Department of Health and Human Services under the ASPR Barda Division Contracts Management & Acquisition office, falls under NAICS code 541715 and is structured as a subcontract opportunity. Proposals must be submitted by July 17, 2026, with performance expected to center in Washington. The initiative aims to advance diagnostic capabilities for public health applications by bridging the gap between laboratory-grade accuracy and real-world accessibility, ensuring timely detection of infectious agents in resource-limited or non-clinical settings.