In vitro testing services for small-molecule drug candidates
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 National Institutes of Health (NIH) has issued a Notice of Intent to award a Firm-Fixed-Price Purchase Order to Cyprotex US LLC for in vitro testing services for small-molecule drug candidates. This notice indicates NIH's intent to sole source, citing Cyprotex US LLC as the only known responsible source. However, small businesses are invited to submit capability statements by June 8, 2026, 5:00 p.m. EDT, to demonstrate their ability to meet the requirement.
Scope of Work
The required services involve conducting in vitro studies to predict the behavior of small-molecule compounds. These studies are crucial for aiding in the selection of compounds with optimized physical, chemical, and biological properties during the drug discovery process, ultimately informing the nomination of lead or clinical candidates.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Presolicitation / Notice of Intent to Sole Source (Firm-Fixed-Price Purchase Order)
- Anticipated Awardee: Cyprotex US LLC
- Place of Performance: Bethesda, MD
- Set-Aside: None specified (exploring potential for competition)
- Capability Statement Due: June 8, 2026, 5:00 p.m. EDT
- Published: May 29, 2026
- Anticipated Award: Approximately ten (10) days after the notice date, unless another vendor is identified.
Rationale for Sole Source & Potential for Competition
NIH has identified Cyprotex US LLC as the sole responsible source due to their demonstrated technical proficiency, established logistics for compound shipping and data reporting, and competitive cost estimates. While this is not a request for competitive quotes, the Government is open to considering other vendors. Small businesses (including 8(a), service-disabled veteran-owned, HUBZone, small disadvantaged, veteran-owned, and women-owned small businesses) are encouraged to submit a written capability statement.
Submission Information
Capability statements must be emailed to David Shen (david.shen@nih.gov) by the stated deadline. The Government will review these submissions to determine if the requirement can be competed.