B--Radiogenic Isotope Analyses
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 US Geological Survey (USGS), under the Department of Interior, is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice to identify qualified businesses capable of performing whole-rock strontium-hafnium-lead-neodymium isotope analyses. This opportunity is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. Responses are due by March 20, 2026, at 1800 PD.
Scope of Work
The USGS requires whole-rock strontium-hafnium-lead-neodymium isotope analyses on 30 pulverized igneous rock samples from southeast Alaska. The contractor will receive at least 1g of powder per sample. Analyses must utilize recognized spikes, separation methods, standards, and instrumental techniques to achieve typical precision (e.g., 143Nd/144Nd 2σ < ± ~0.00001).
Key Requirements
- Deliverables: Elemental and isotopic compositions for all 30 samples, including a comprehensive report detailing analytical techniques, data reduction methods, and a table of isotopic data with uncertainties. Excess powdered samples must be returned.
- Key Personnel: A lead isotope geochemistry expert with a Ph.D. and at least 5 years of experience, evidenced by authorship on relevant publications.
- Lab Reputation: The performing laboratory must be an internationally recognized and reputable isotope geochemistry lab.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)
- NAICS Code: 541380 (Testing Laboratories and Services) with a $19.0 million size standard.
- Product Service Code: B517 (Geological Studies)
- Period of Performance: Approximately 1 year from contract award.
- Place of Performance: Contractor's independent laboratory.
- Response Due: March 20, 2026, at 1800 PD.
- Published Date: March 10, 2026.
Submission & Evaluation
Interested businesses should submit capability statements detailing their ability to meet the requirements outlined in the Statement of Work. Submissions must be sent via electronic mail only to aberry@usgs.gov. Hardcopy or web portal submissions will not be accepted. This is for planning purposes only; the government is not committed to awarding a contract.
Additional Notes
This is a Sources Sought announcement for market research purposes only and is not a request for quote or proposal. No costs incurred in response preparation will be reimbursed by the government.