AK-MMM pacific walrus genetic analysis

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Marine Mammal Office seeks genetic analysis testing services for Pacific walrus samples to support population demographic estimation. The solicitation seeks a contractor to extract DNA from up to 40 plates of samples annually and develop a 3,000 SNP panel using DArTcap technology, as well as analyze samples for mtDNA, sex, and age. The contractor must have experience developing genomic markers for new species and demonstrated high throughput genotyping abilities with low error rates and timely result delivery. Quotes are due by November 21, 2022 for the firm-fixed price, single award contract running from December 2022 to December 2027.

The NAICS code is 541620 for biological testing and analysis services with a $16.5 million size standard. The contractor will analyze up to 3,000 genetic samples per year extracted from plates of walrus biological material delivered by the agency. The period of performance spans five years from December 2022 through December 2027 with an anticipated budget of $16.5 million. The place of performance will be the contractor's facilities with deliverables including annual genotyping results through the term of the contract.