Notice of Intent to Sole Source Ion Chef

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention intends to award a sole source firm fixed price purchase order to Life Technologies for the Ion Chef instrument. This machine streamlines workflow, reduces technical hands-on time, and reduces technical errors in the next-generation sequencing workflow process. These improvements increase productivity by allowing technical staff to multitask by automating 5 hours in the sequencing workflow, and by eliminating the need for repeat testing by automating chip loading and ensuring efficient sequencing coverage. These benefits of the Ion Chef machine improve productivity, efficiency, and reduce costs incurred from repeat sequencing if coverage is not complete. This contract action is for supplies or services for which the Government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b) (SAP) and 10 U.S.C. 2304(c)(1). Interested persons may identify their interest and capability to respond to the requirement.

THIS NOTICE OF INTENT IS NOT A REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE QUOTATIONS; however, all responses received within five (5) days of the issuance of this notice will be reviewed by the government.  A determination by the government not to compete this proposed contract based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the government.  Information received will be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.  Any response should be emailed to contract specialist at qlc3@cdc.gov by COB 10 June 2020.