Purchase of a platform high throughput metagenomics sequencing system

The Food and Drug Administration is forecasting the potential purchase of a high-throughput metagenomics sequencing platform, specifically the Aviti Element system, to evaluate its viability as a replacement for existing Illumina high-throughput systems. This technology is intended to support critical genomic food safety applications by enabling WGS specialists to perform advanced sequencing and analysis. The requisition is currently marked as unfunded with a zero-dollar value, serving as a placeholder to formalize the intent for future consideration. Funding for procurement is expected to be reviewed in the summer of 2026, at which time a decision will be made on whether to proceed with execution and allocation of resources. The opportunity is posted under NAICS code 334516, with the FDA as the procuring agency and the Hfp Acquisition Liaison as the designated point of contact, while the contracting officer position remains to be determined.