Notice of Intent to Sole-Source: Understanding EBV Antibody-based NPC Risk Scores in Asian Population Cohorts

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Cancer Institute (NCI), Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG), Infections and Immunoepidemiology Branch (IIB) requires the testing of 2771 samples collected in Asia to better understand EBV-based immunological markers associated with NPC risk. The IIB seeks to understand patterns of risk prediction scores using the EBV-based risk prediction models. This understanding will assist with efforts to establish ideal intervals for screening for NPC based on the new score. The NCI intends to procure services for multiplex serology for two sets of up to 41 antigens for one set of 1700 serum or plasma samples. The NCI intends to issue a purchase order on a sole-source basis to: Deutsches Krebsforchungszentrum (DKFZ) Im Neuenheimer Feld 280 Heidelberg 69120 Germany DKFZ is the only lab in the world that runs a Luminex-based serologic assay for the necessary EBV antibodies. The protocol for this specific assay is proprietary. Additionally, this order will be a continuation of two previous orders issued by the NCI where DKFZ ran this assay on samples from other study sets. DKFZ is the only known organization able to provide these services while ensuring comparability and consistency with previous efforts. Details regarding the specifications for this acquisition can be found in Attachment 1 - Statement of Work. The response close date of this notice is in accordance with FAR 5.203(a)(1). This acquisition will be awarded pursuant to the authority in FAR 13 using simplified acquisition procedures. This acquisition is exempt from the requirements of FAR Part 6. This notice is not a request for competitive quotation; however, if any interested party - especially any small business - believes it can meet this requirement, it may submit a capability statement for the Government to consider. The response and any other information furnished must be in writing and must contain material in sufficient detail to allow NCI to determine if the party can perform the requirement. Responses must be received in the contracting office by the deadline stated in this notice. All responses and/or questions must be submitted via e-mail to Renee Jones-Chuang, Contract Specialist, at contact@example.gov. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed requirement based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. In order to receive an award, contractors must be registered and have valid certification through SAM.gov and have representations and certifications completed. Responses should include both the STATEMENT OF CAPABILITY and the BUSINESS SIZE AND SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS information as explained below. This notice is to assist with determining sources only. If a solicitation is issued it will be announced at a later date, and all interested parties must respond to that solicitation announcement separately from the responses to this announcement. Requested Information: (1) Statement of Capability: Submit a brief description (10-pages or fewer) that includes product specifications. Include past experience with performing this type of service for Government agencies, or for a private medical facility. Please indicate your address. (2) Business Size and Socio-Economic Status: (a) Indicate whether your organization is a small business or other-than-small business. (b) If small, indicate if your firm qualifies as a small, emerging business; or a small disadvantaged business. (c) If disadvantaged, specify under which disadvantaged group and if your firm is certified under Section 8(a) of the Small Business Act. (d) Indicate if your firm is a certified HUB-Zone firm. (e) Indicate if your firm is a woman-owned or operated business. (f) Indicate if your firm is a certified Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) or a Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB). (g) Include the DUNS number of your firm. (h) State whether your firm is registered in the System for Award Management (SAM).