B--REQUIREMENTS-26-3767 eDNA Sample Processing

Solicitation 1305M326Q0354 is a firm-fixed-price request for quotation issued by the Department of Commerce NOAA for Environmental DNA (eDNA) Sample Processing and Sequencing Services to support the Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center. This contract is a 100% small business set-aside under NAICS 541380. The scope of work requires the contractor to perform DNA extraction, quantification, replicated metabarcoding PCR amplification, and high-throughput Illumina sequencing on frozen water-filter samples. Key technical requirements include a target of 100,000 sequencing reads per sample per marker, a minimum of three PCR replicates per sample per assay, and a strict prohibition on the use of artificial intelligence in processing federal data. The base period of performance runs from September 30, 2026, through September 29, 2027, with final delivery of work due by September 20, 2027. Deliverables include sample receipt acknowledgments within two business days, taxonomic assignment tables, and a final project summary. The contractor must adhere to strict sample handling protocols, including storage at -20 degrees Celsius or colder and shipping via overnight courier on dry ice. Performance is evaluated based on a 90-day average turnaround time per batch and the successful delivery of gzip-compressed FastQ files. Award will be based on the most advantageous offer, evaluating technical capability, past performance, and total price.