Clumped Isotope and Phytolith Analysis

The US Geological Survey Office of Acquisitions and Grants is seeking specialized laboratory services for clumped isotope thermometry and phytolith paleoecological analysis to support paleoclimatic research. The contractor will analyze terrestrial sedimentary samples from Miocene-Pliocene strata in central Idaho's Glenn's Ferry formation to establish lacustrine temperatures and paleoclimatic indicators. Key requirements include conducting fieldwork with USGS personnel, demonstrating proficiency in both analytical techniques, and having documented experience in paleoclimatic reconstructions. Vendors must submit capability statements addressing relevant experience, personnel qualifications, laboratory facilities, methodology, quality control protocols, and compliance information. The Request for Information responses are due by July 1, 2025, and must be submitted to Joel Berberena at jberberena@usgs.gov with the specific subject line format provided.

This procurement does not utilize any set-aside designations and falls under NAICS Code 541380 for Testing Laboratories with a size standard of $19 million. The contractor will be responsible for analyzing 50 clumped isotope samples and conducting 50 phytolith analyses, with each phytolith analysis requiring examination of 400 individual phytoliths per sample. The project timeline spans from July 2025 to September 2027, with the contractor bearing responsibility for all associated travel and analysis costs. Digital reports must be delivered in Excel and Word formats, and no current contractors or incumbents are identified in the solicitation documents. The opportunity is classified under PSC Code B529 for Special Studies/Analysis-Scientific Data, indicating the specialized nature of the required analytical services.