Notice of Intent to Negotiate a Sole Source Contract

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), US Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, NE, intends to negotiate on a sole source basis to Pacific Biosciences of California for a service contract on the Sequel DNA sequencing instrument, serial no. SQ54033.; under the authority of FAR 6.302-1. The Pacific Biosciences RS system is a state-of-the-art instrument for collecting single molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing reads that average >10x longer than other high-throughput instruments. The manufacturer is the only source for various parts, supplies, and knowledge to perform repairs, upgrades, or adjustments on their proprietary and patent protected equipment.

This is a notice of intent and is not a request for competitive quotations or proposals. No solicitation is available. Firms that believe they can provide this service are encouraged to identify themselves and provide a substantive statement with descriptive literature and any other supporting information to the Contracting Officer within 10 days of publication of this notice. All information received within 10 days of publication of this synopsis will be considered by the Government to determine if the alternative equipment meets the Government's requirements and is capable of performing the intended task(s). All responses must be in writing and may be faxed to the attention of Donita Furman, fax 402-762-4145, or email at donita.furman@ars.usda.gov. Questions concerning this acquisition must be directed to Donita Furman, email donita.furman@ars.usda.gov.