Sequencing Cotton DNA samples

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in FAR subpart 12.6, as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; quotes are being requested, and a written solicitation will not be issued. The solicitation number is 12405B25Q0063 and is issued as a request for quotation (RFQ). The NAICS code is 541990 All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services. This solicitation document incorporates those provisions and clauses in effect through Federal Acquisition Circular 2025-02.

The USDA, ARS, SRRC in New Orleans, LA has the need for sequencing of 235 cotton DNA samples, per these specifications.

Upon receiving DNA samples from the customer, the vendor will first measure the DNA quantity, and check the quality to determine whether the DNA sample is good for library construction. After passing the quality control, the vendor will use a PCR-free preparation method to construct a specialized library using the provided DNA sample. Then the libraries will be sequenced using a next-generation sequencing instrument such as Illumina 2000, NovaSeq, or other system. A pair end 150 is required. For 200 samples, the vendor will generate 25Gb sequence data from each sample. For the remaining 35 samples, the vendor will generate 100Gb sequence data from each sample.  The vendor will upload all sequence data into a hard disk, and ship to the customer.

The vendor will complete the work within 45 business days after receiving DNA samples from the customer.

Please include the solicitation number, 12405B25Q0063, in all email communications.

DELIVER TO: 1100 Allen Toussaint Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70124.

DOCUMENTS TO BE INCLUDED IN QUOTE: In order to be considered for award Offerors shall provide 1) a Quote on company letterhead detailing the item description, unit price per item, discounts for trade-ins, total price and valid for at least 60 days after receipt of quote; and 2) FAR 52.212-3, OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATION-COMMERCIAL ITEMS; The Representation and Certification section must be completed electronically in the System for Award Management (SAM) website at www.sam.gov.

REJECTION OF QUOTATION: Failure to demonstrate compliance will be caused to reject the quote without further discussions. All responsible sources may submit an offer and will be considered.

QUOTED PRICE MUST INCLUDE: any delivery costs as well as any applicable duties, brokerage, or customs fees.

PAYMENT: Any award made under this solicitation is subject to 31 CFR Part 208 which requires all payments made by the government to be made by electronic funds transfer.

Contractors intending to conduct business with the Federal Government MUST register with the System for Award Management (SAM) database prior to submitting quotation. You may register online at www.sam.gov. Any amendment and documents related to this procurement will be available electronically at the Internet site: http://www.sam.gov.

FAR 52.212-2, Evaluation-Commercial Item, the significant evaluation factors, in the relative order of importance, are (i) technical capability of the item offered to meet the Government requirement including delivery date and (ii) price (based on F.O.B. Destination). Award will be made based on overall BEST VALUE to the Government. The government anticipates award of a firm fixed priced contract resulting from this solicitation to the responsible offeror whose offer conforms to the specifications that will be the most advantageous to the government in accordance with FAR 13.106-2. All questions regarding this solicitation should be emailed to the Contracting Officer Kelly Bero at Kelly.Bero@usda.gov no later than 5:00PM EST on January 28, 2025. Responses shall include technical specifications, descriptive material and capabilities of the offeror’s equipment. Offerors shall identity where the offered item meets or does not meet