Next-generation Sequencing of Nucleic-acid Libraries
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) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) has issued a Request for Quotation (RFQ), Solicitation Number 1232SA26Q0232, for Next-generation Sequencing of Nucleic-acid Libraries. This acquisition is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. Offers are due by March 6, 2026, 4:00 PM Central Time.
Scope of Work
The contractor will provide next-generation sequencing of prepared Illumina nucleic acid libraries, specifically utilizing the Illumina Novaseq X Plus platform. Services support the analysis of immune status, gene expression, and DNA epigenetic status. Key tasks include performing specific sequencing runs with defined read pair totals, cycling parameters, and sample pooling for whole-transcriptome assays and ATACseq. Each sequencing run must be performed sequentially, with data provided within 14 days of sample receipt before the next run begins. Deliverables include a quality report and FASTQ files for each run.
Contract Details
- Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation (RFQ), anticipated Firm-Fixed-Price requirements contract.
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside.
- NAICS Code: 541380 (Scientific Data Studies) with a small business size standard of $19.0M.
- Award: The Government intends to make one award.
- Solicitation Number: 1232SA26Q0232.
Submission & Evaluation
- Questions Due: February 27, 2026, 4:00 PM Central Time.
- Offers Due: March 6, 2026, 4:00 PM Central Time.
- Offer Acceptance Period: Offers must be held firm for 90 calendar days.
- Evaluation Criteria: Award will be based on the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) approach, representing the best value to the Government.
- Price: Evaluated for fairness and reasonableness.
- Technical Acceptability: Rated as "acceptable" or "unacceptable" based on a sound and compliant approach, including required documentation. Exceptions to the Statement of Work may lead to technical unacceptability.
- Past Performance: Evaluated as "Acceptable," "Neutral," or "Unacceptable."
Additional Notes
This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; a separate written solicitation will not be issued. All responsible sources may submit a quotation. Numerous Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clauses and provisions are incorporated by reference. The technical point of contact for the SOW is Dr. Crystal Loving (crystal.loving@usda.gov).