Intent to Sole Source Metabolomics Analysis Services for Million Veteran Program

The Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Health Administration is seeking a contractor to provide metabolomics analysis services to support the Million Veteran Program, specifically to measure more than 1,000 metabolites from stored blood samples. The VA intends to sole source this contract to Metabolon under Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 5.101, which permits awards when only one responsible source can satisfy agency requirements. Key contractor qualifications include GLP certification, laboratory facilities within the Continental United States, demonstrated experience processing over 50,000 human samples, capacity to handle 10,000 to 20,000 samples annually, secure storage capabilities at -80 degrees Celsius, an extensive chemical reference library exceeding 4,000 metabolites, and a minimum of 100 peer-reviewed publications using the deployed technology. The government will evaluate capability submissions based on demonstrated ability to meet the Performance Work Statement requirements, and responsible sources may submit capability information demonstrating their qualifications. The deadline for capability submissions is March 11, 2026, at 10:00 AM EST, with all submissions directed via email to Contracting Officer Renee Kale at renee.kale@va.gov.

This procurement includes no set-aside designations, and Metabolon is identified as the intended sole source awardee. The contract will involve processing 10,000 to 20,000 samples annually with an initial batch of 2,880 samples requiring completion within 8 to 12 weeks, followed by processing at 4-week intervals thereafter. The performance period is five years with no option years, requiring monthly written reports tracking completion and quality control metrics along with secure data delivery via encrypted hard drives or VA-approved cloud locations within one week of sample completion. Critical deliverables include a Project Management Plan within 5 business days of award, a VA Sample Security and Data Security Plan within 7 business days, and a Contractor Security Control Assessment within 30 days. While specific budget information is not provided in the notice, the substantial annual sample volume and multi-year performance period indicate a significant contract value. No travel is required for contract performance.