eDNA Autosampler

The U.S. Geological Survey is conducting sources sought market research to determine availability of qualified vendors capable of providing an eDNA autosampling platform, with capabilities statements due May 26, 2026. This is a market research exercise; the Government is not committed to award and will not reimburse response costs.

The platform must collect, filter, and preserve a minimum of 30 eDNA water samples for up to three months without human intervention. The system shall incorporate UV-based biofouling mitigation and automatic logging of sampling metadata. The platform is land-based and deployable from shore, with compact design transportable by one to two people, and operates on swappable battery packs. It must accommodate 47-millimeter diameter filters (polyethersulfone, glass fiber, or mixed cellulose ester) and preservation solutions including RNALater and ethanol. Water volume accuracy must meet at least 95 percent for sample volumes up to two liters. Filter sample holders must be reusable and decontaminable to minimize contamination risk during field deployment and laboratory transport. Field servicing must be completable in less than 20 minutes by a single person. The sampling rate must be user-definable and programmable.

Contractors must provide evidence of validation and testing demonstrating platform compliance with all specified requirements. NAICS code 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing) with size standard 1,000 applies. Responses are limited to electronic submission to elizabeth_adam@ios.doi.gov by 10:00 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time on May 26, 2026, and must include salient characteristics documentation.