R416--Veterinarian Services for Research

The Department of Veterans Affairs intends to award a sole source five-year contract to Krista Gibbs, DVM LLC for licensed veterinary services at the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System. The contract requires a veterinarian who complies with USDA Animal Welfare Regulations and PHS policy to provide comprehensive veterinary care for research animals housed at the facility. Key responsibilities include managing the animal research facility to ensure compliance with welfare regulations, serving as the Attending Veterinarian with associated regulatory roles such as Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) involvement, and conducting regular onsite visits, averaging twice a week. Additional duties under the contract encompass supporting researchers with specialized veterinary techniques, assisting in experimental design and protocol reviews, and overseeing quality control programs for rodent colonies. The veterinarian will have authority to direct or delegate all activities involving animals at the facility to maintain high standards of care and regulatory adherence. This sole source contract, identified by solicitation number 36C24E26Q0019 and NAICS code 541940, reflects the specialized nature of the services and the absence of competitive bidding. The contract is managed by the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Rpo East office in Pittsburgh, PA.