187Re/187Os analyses of sulfide minerals in mineralized rocks

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Alaska Science Center is conducting market research to identify qualified laboratories capable of performing 187Re/187Os analyses of sulfide minerals in mineralized rocks. The agency requires analysis of 32 samples of molybdenite, pyrrhotite, or arsenopyrite-bearing mineralization with specific technical requirements including the use of two state-of-the-art Triton thermal ionization mass spectrometers and a mixed Re-double Os spike method. Contractors must operate high-quality geochronologic laboratories with senior technicians possessing economic geology expertise and senior researchers with advanced degrees in ore system development. The laboratory must demonstrate capability to produce geologically reasonable dates with 0.5% or less uncertainty for molybdenites and provide comprehensive analytical reporting with publication-ready materials. Responses to this sources sought notice must be submitted electronically to cjfejarang@usgs.gov by July 11, 2025 at 12:00pm PDT, with the contract period extending through December 31, 2026.

This opportunity is designated as a Total Small Business set-aside under NAICS code 541380 (Testing Laboratories) with a size standard of $16.5 million annually. The statement of work specifies analysis of exactly 32 samples with a maximum 30-day turnaround time from sample receipt to completion. The contractor must be US-based and prepared to handle potential COVID-related operational disruptions while maintaining laboratory readiness. Deliverables include an electronic report containing age determinations, analytical data, publication-ready figures and tables, and written analytical interpretations, with all generated data becoming government property for public domain release. The laboratory must also be prepared to collaborate on potential scientific publications resulting from the analytical work.