eDNA Autosampler

Quick Summary

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries, Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center (PIFSC) is conducting a Sources Sought market research effort to identify commercially available or field-ready eDNA autosampler systems. These systems will support mission-critical fisheries, ecosystem, and protected species research surveys in the Pacific Islands Region. This is not a solicitation, and responses will inform future procurement actions. Responses are due June 5, 2026.

Scope of Need

PIFSC requires autonomous or semi-autonomous eDNA autosampling capabilities to collect and filter seawater samples across various marine platforms (shipboard, small-boat, moored, drifting, towed, or gear-integrated). The systems must support discrete eDNA sample collection across variable depths, times, and volumes, including high-volume filtration suitable for low-biomass, offshore, pelagic, or deep-water environments. The goal is to reduce contamination, increase sample consistency, expand sampling capacity in remote areas, and integrate molecular observations into surveys.

Key Technical Requirements

Minimum requirements include:

• In situ filtration or equivalent contamination-minimizing approach.
• Configurable sample volume, with preference for tens of liters.
• Programmable sampling controls (time, depth, pressure, external trigger).
• Depth capability of at least 100m, with preference for 300m or 1000m.
• Marine deployment compatibility with NOAA ships, small boats, and integration with survey gear.
• Contamination controls between samples and deployments.
• Filter/cartridge compatibility for eDNA analysis, including high-volume options.
• Field usability by trained personnel.
• Data and software access for mission logs, metadata, and sensor data.
• Vendor-provided training, documentation, and support.

Preferred capabilities include collecting multiple discrete samples, eDNA preservation, filtering tens to hundreds of liters, modular cartridges, multiple filter formats, various trigger modes, integrated flow/volume measurement, and integrated sensors.

Contract & Timeline

• Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
• NAICS: 334516 (Size Standard: 1,000 employees)
• Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
• Response Due: June 5, 2026, 2:00 P.M. (Hawaii Time)
• Published: May 28, 2026
• Delivery: No later than September 30, 2026, or as soon as practicable.

Response Requirements

Interested vendors should submit:

1. A statement of capability.
2. A specification sheet for proposed equipment.
3. UEI #.
4. SBA certified small business concern status (e.g., HUBZone, SDVOSB, 8(a), or large business).
5. Country of origin of equipment. Responses are limited to five pages and should be emailed to Stephanie.M.Garnett@noaa.gov.