Analyzation of Samples for Emergent Screwworm

Quick Summary

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, is seeking quotations for the Analyzation of Samples for Emergent Screwworm research study. This is a Total Small Business Set-Aside opportunity, with an intent to award a single, firm-fixed-price contract. The primary objective is to perform specialized toxicological analysis of experimental molasses-based cattle feed supplements. Quotations are due by February 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM UTC.

Scope of Work

The contractor will analyze approximately 50-100 cooked molasses cattle supplement blocks. Key tasks include:

• Quantitative Potency Verification: Ensuring insecticide concentration meets predefined thresholds.
• Batch Homogeneity Testing: Confirming uniform distribution of macrocyclic lactones.
• Clinical Stability Profiling: Assessing API degradation under simulated field conditions and determining shelf-life. All data generated is time-critical and must be compliant with ISO 17025 standards.

Special Requirements

The work requires:

• Utilization of validated, proprietary high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry protocols.
• Qualified analytical chemists with expertise in complex organic and inorganic analyses, including toxins, xenobiotic residues, and essential nutrients.
• Specialized technical expertise in Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS, GC/MS, HRMS) and Elemental Analysis (ICP-MS).
• Proficiency in sample preparation techniques (solid-phase extraction, liquid-liquid extraction).
• Strict adherence to ISO 17025 standards and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Contract Details

• Opportunity Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation (Request for Quotation - RFQ)
• Anticipated Award Type: Firm-fixed-price contract.
• Period of Performance: One (1) one-year base period.
• Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5).
• NAICS Code: 334516 (Chemical Analysis Instruments), with a small business size standard of 1,000 employees.
• Place of Performance: University of California, Davis, 620 W. Health Sciences Drive, Davis, CA 95616.

Submission & Evaluation

• Submission: Quotations must be submitted electronically via email to the contract specialist in Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF format.
• Offer Acceptance Period: Quoters must hold their offer prices firm for 90 calendar days.
• Evaluation Criteria: Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA). Price will be evaluated for the base period. Technical acceptability will be rated "acceptable" or "unacceptable" based on meeting requirements and demonstrating understanding. Past performance will be evaluated as "Acceptable," "Neutral," or "Unacceptable."
• Deliverables: Comprehensive Analytical Report, Data Tables, and Supporting Documentation in electronic format, delivered within 15 business days following completion of analyses for each batch.

Key Dates & Contact

• Questions Deadline: February 06, 2026, 12:00 PM Eastern Time.
• Quotation Due Date: February 13, 2026, 5:00 PM UTC.
• Delivery Required By: February 20, 2026 (early deliveries accepted).
• Primary Contact: Winston Buchanan, winston.buchanan@usda.gov.