Intent to Sole Source for Photopigment Analysis 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 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), specifically the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL), intends to award a sole source purchase order to Auburn University for Photopigment Analysis Services. This requirement is for specialized analysis to be performed in Huntsville, AL. This is a presolicitation notice, and firms believing they can meet the government's requirements must submit substantiating documentation by June 23, 2026.
Scope of Work
NOAA requires non-personal services for highly specialized photopigment analysis. This work involves examining photopigments, particularly cyanobacteria photopigments, in lake systems globally. The analysis is critical for research focal areas such as paleolimnology and population dynamics, requiring consistent processes. The services will be performed at Huntsville, AL.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Presolicitation (Intent to Sole Source)
- Award Type: Purchase Order
- Authority: RFO 12.102(a)
- Intended Awardee: Auburn University
- Period of Performance: September 28, 2026, through September 27, 2027
- NAICS Code: 541990 (All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services)
- Set-Aside: None (Sole Source)
- Published Date: June 8, 2026
- Response Due Date: June 23, 2026 (15 days after publication)
Sole Source Justification
NOAA's determination for a sole source award to Auburn University is based on their unique capabilities. Auburn University is identified as the only laboratory source possessing the necessary equipment, resources, and abilities to perform this highly specialized photopigment analysis, particularly for freshwater pigment analysis. Their research team's expertise in cyanobacteria photopigments and the critical need for consistent analytical processes support this sole source decision. Auburn University has confirmed its status as the sole source provider for these services.
Action for Industry
This notice is not a request for competitive proposals, and no solicitation package is available. However, firms that believe they can fully meet the government's requirements may submit written substantiating documentation or a request for additional information to the identified Point of Contact. Responses will be evaluated solely to determine if a competitive procurement is feasible. The government retains discretion regarding the decision to conduct a competitive procurement. Oral communications are not acceptable.
Point of Contact: Jamie Rosales Email: jamie.rosales@noaa.gov Phone: 303-578-6951