AN11--Intent to Sole Source MRI Scanning and Image Analysis
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), RPO-E R&D, has issued a Special Notice indicating its intent to award a sole source Firm Fixed Price contract to the University of Washington. This contract is for MRI scanning and image analysis services to support VA research on AI-assisted cerebral vascular atherosclerosis. This is not a request for competitive proposals. Interested sources must submit capability information by February 23, 2026, at 10:00 AM EST.
Purpose & Scope
The VA intends to procure services from the University of Washington to develop sequences, platforms, and analysis tools essential for improving MRI research. This effort directly supports the approved merit grant CSDR 1I01CX003005-01, which focuses on the development of AI-assisted intra- and extra-cranial artery vessel wall imaging and analysis techniques for characterizing high-risk cerebral vascular atherosclerosis.
The Statement of Work (SOW) details the required services, including:
- MRI Protocol Development: Creating MRI protocols for patient scanning using vessel wall MRI on a 3T Philips scanner.
- 3T MRI Scans: Conducting annual 3T MRI scans at the UW Bio-Molecular Imaging Center (BMIC), including providing space for subject interviews and physical examinations.
- Technical Development Services: Providing ongoing technical support for MRI sequence development, ensuring scan quality, and requiring an on-site Philips clinical scientist to support new sequence development and provide source code.
- Image Analysis Services: Performing all MRI scan analysis and final study evaluations at the UW Vascular Imaging Laboratory (VIL), utilizing specialized software (iCafe, CASCADE, MOCHA) with AI-based technology.
- Recruitment Services: Recruiting patients from the Puget Sound VA for scans and coordinating study visits.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Intent to award a Firm Fixed Price contract (Indefinite-delivery contract with an estimated minimum award guarantee of $50,000.00).
- Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs, RPO-E R&D
- Period of Performance: Four years.
- Place of Performance: University of Washington, Seattle (Bio-Molecular Imaging Center and Vascular Imaging Laboratory).
- Set-Aside: None (Sole Source Intent)
- Capability Statement Due: February 23, 2026, 10:00 AM EST
- Published Date: February 9, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
This notice is not a request for competitive proposals or quotations. Responsible sources who believe they can perform the required work must submit capability information that clearly demonstrates their ability to meet the requirements outlined in the SOW. The government will consider this information solely to determine whether to conduct a competitive procurement. A decision not to compete this proposed contract is at the government's discretion. No costs associated with preparing responses will be reimbursed.
Point of Contact
All inquiries and submittals must be sent via email to Renee Kale, Contracting Officer, at renee.kale@va.gov. Telephone inquiries will not be accepted.