GridION Instrument Services
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 U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), specifically the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), is issuing a Presolicitation for GridION Instrument Services at the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) in Ames, IA. This notice indicates an intent to award a sole source contract to Oxford Nanopore Technologies Inc. due to their unique position as the sole manufacturer and provider of proprietary software for the GridION instrument. However, all responsible sources are invited to submit a response. Responses are due by February 19, 2025.
Scope of Work
The required services for the Oxford Nanopore sequencing instrument include:
- Essential coverage, including licenses for the latest Oxford Nanopore software and devices.
- Repair and updates to the proprietary MinKnow software for sequencing and running the long-read sequencer.
- Email and chat support (8 hours/day).
- Repair and replacement for GridION unit malfunctions.
- Remote or on-site maintenance support from a Field Engineer.
- Onboarding support, including remote installation calls.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Presolicitation (intent to award sole source)
- NAICS: 811210 Electronic and Precision Equipment Repair and Maintenance
- PSC: J066 Maintenance, Repair, and Rebuilding of Equipment - Instruments and Laboratory Equipment
- Intended Source: Oxford Nanopore Technologies Inc.
- Justification: Oxford Nanopore is the only manufacturer and seller of the GridION instrument, and its MinKnow software is proprietary, making them the sole source for repairs and updates.
- Anticipated Award Date: March 10, 2026
- Response Due: February 19, 2025, 23:00 UTC
Response Information
All responsible sources may submit a response for consideration by the agency. Responses must be emailed to Stephen Tees at Stephen.Tees@usda.gov by the stated deadline. Telephonic inquiries will not be honored.