Howard Cyrus

Howard Cyrus is a procurement professional with a focused mandate on scientific and technical acquisitions, driving the agency’s mission to advance research and innovation through strategic contracting. He specializes in managing complex solicitations for R&D services and high-precision manufacturing, ensuring alignment with federal acquisition regulations and technical requirements. His portfolio centers on supporting cutting-edge scientific capabilities, particularly in physical, engineering, and life sciences, making him a key liaison between technical stakeholders and industry partners. Cyrus cultivates collaborative relationships with a diverse range of vendors, including specialized research firms, analytical instrument manufacturers, and pharmaceutical preparation contractors. While no single contractor dominates his portfolio, he consistently engages both large primes and agile small businesses capable of delivering niche technical solutions. His contracting approach emphasizes performance-based outcomes, clear statement of work development, and rigorous technical evaluation criteria to ensure mission-critical deliverables are met. His procurement patterns reflect a strong preference for open competition, with 80% of awards issued without set-aside restrictions. However, he actively supports small business participation, dedicating 20% of his acquisitions to Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5. This balanced approach ensures broad market access while fostering innovation from emerging firms without compromising competitiveness or technical rigor. Cyrus’s primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541712 (R&D in physical, engineering, and life sciences), followed by analytical laboratory instrument manufacturing (334516) and pharmaceutical preparation (325412). He frequently procures custom research protocols, laboratory instrumentation, clinical trial support services, and scientific consulting solutions. His expertise spans technical domains including laboratory automation, chemical analysis, and applied scientific research, positioning him as a trusted advisor for mission-driven science and technology acquisitions.