Radiogenic Isotope Analyses

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial products and/or services, prepared in accordance with FAR Part 12 and FAR 12.603, utilizing simplified acquisition procedures. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics (GMEG) Science Center requires whole-rock strontium-hafnium-lead-neodymium isotope analyses of samples collected from igneous rocks in southeast Alaska. These analyses will support ongoing research for critical mineral studies.

• The USGS will provide 30 pulverized whole-rock samples (surface or drill core) for Sm-Nd analysis.

• The contractor must perform Sm-Nd analysis on these samples.

• Deliverables include strontium-hafnium-lead-neodymium elemental and isotopic compositions of the 30 samples.

• A report detailing the analytical techniques, methods, and all relevant isotopic data must be submitted.

• The contractor must assume all tasks related to Sm-Nd analysis and provide necessary staff and equipment.

• A firm fixed-price purchase order is planned, subject to the Service Contract Act.

• Period of Performance: 1 year from contract award date.

• Place of Performance: Contractor's independent laboratory.

• Quotations are due by 04/16/2026 at 0800 PD.

• Submission instructions are detailed in the "Addendum to FAR 52.212-1".

• Evaluation will be based on Technical Capability, Past Performance, and Price. Non-price factors will be approximately equal to price.

• Technical Capability will be evaluated on understanding of requirements, technical approach, and relevant experience.

• Past Performance will be evaluated on relevance and quality of similar work, including references.

• Price will be evaluated for reasonableness and completeness.

• This solicitation is not a small business set-aside.

• Offerors must submit a firm-fixed-price quote with a full breakdown.

• Quotes must be submitted electronically to Anthony Berry at amberry@ios.doi.gov.

• Physical and late submissions will not be accepted.

• The solicitation document includes numerous FAR clauses and provisions that bidders must comply with.

Sources Sought

The US Geological Survey (USGS) is conducting market research to identify businesses capable of performing whole-rock strontium-hafnium-lead-neodymium isotope analyses on igneous rock samples from southeast Alaska. This is for planning purposes only and is not a request for quote or proposal.

• Analysis Type: Whole-rock strontium-hafnium-lead-neodymium isotope analyses.

• Samples: 30 pulverized whole-rock samples (at least 1g powder each) will be provided by the USGS.

• Methods: Utilize recognized spikes, separation methods, standards, and instrumental techniques to achieve typical precision (e.g., 143Nd/144Nd 2σ < ± ~0.00001).

• Deliverables: Elemental and isotopic compositions of the 30 samples, including a report with analytical techniques, data reduction methods, and a table of isotopic data with uncertainties. Excess powdered samples should be returned.

• Key Personnel: Lead isotope geochemistry expert with a Ph.D. and 5+ years of experience, authorship on relevant publications.

• Lab Reputation: Must be an internationally recognized and reputable isotope geochemistry lab.

• Period of Performance: Approximately 1 year from contract award.

• Place of Performance: Contractor's independent laboratory.

• Response Type: Capability statements detailing ability to meet the Statement of Work.

• Submission Method: Electronic mail only to aberry@usgs.gov.

• Deadline: No later than 03/20/2026 at 1800 PD.

• Proposals: Hardcopy or web portal submissions will not be accepted.

• NAICS Code: 541380 (Testing Laboratories and Services).

• Size Standard: $19.0 million.

• Product Service Code: B517 (Special studies/analysis – Geological).

• This is a Sources Sought announcement for market research, not a solicitation for offers.

• The government is not committed to awarding a contract.

• No costs incurred in response preparation will be reimbursed.