Wheat Sequencing
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) intends to award a sole source Firm Fixed-Price (FFP) contract for Wheat Sequencing services to North American Genomics. This requirement is for critical technical genotyping data services supporting the USDA Small Grains Genotyping Lab and Ancient Grains Program, involving DNA variant calls on 3,264 wheat DNA samples using a proprietary panel.
Purpose & Scope
This opportunity seeks targeted genetic characterization of wheat through DNA sequencing, essential for the USDA-ARS Hard Winter Wheat Genetics Research Unit. The work supports initiatives such as the U.S. Wheat and Barley Scab Initiative, Wheat Resiliency Initiative, and Small Grains Genotyping Initiative. The vendor will provide DNA variant calls on 3,264 wheat DNA samples across four distinct projects, utilizing the proprietary USDA Wheat AgriSeqV2-4K Panel (4,000 SNPs). Key tasks include sample barcoding, high-quality sequencing, preventing cross-contamination, and reporting DNA variants in VCF and allele/matrix formats within 8 weeks of sample submission.
Contract Details
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed-Price (FFP)
- Anticipated Award: Sole source to North American Genomics
- Estimated Value: $39,168.00 (for base year plus all options, as per J&F)
- Period: FY 2026, anticipated IDIQ with a one-year base period.
- Place of Performance: Vendor's own laboratory.
- Product Service Code: B529 (Scientific Data Studies)
Justification for Other than Full and Open Competition
The USDA justifies this sole source acquisition under 10 U.S.C. 2304(c)(1) as implemented by FAR 6.103-1 (Only One Responsible Source). Market research indicated that no other vendors possess the proprietary DNA primers and specialized technology required for this specific genotyping service, which was collaboratively developed with ThermoFisher Scientific/North American Genomics. The requirement is urgent and high priority, with potential data loss if not addressed promptly.
Submission & Evaluation
While the agency intends to sole source, interested parties are formally requested to submit quotes.
- Quotes Due: February 18, 2026, 9:00 AM PT
- Questions Due: February 16, 2026, 2:00 PM PT
- Submission Method: Email to Elizabeth Calhoun (Elizabeth.Calhoun@usda.gov)
- Evaluation: Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) criteria, with award based on best value. Offerors must submit pricing for all items (base and option periods), a Unique Entity ID (UEI), a Capability Statement, and technical documentation demonstrating ability to meet SOW/PWS requirements. Past performance will be evaluated. The Government intends to award without discussions.
- Wage Determination: Bidders must review the attached Wage Determination for compliance with labor laws and cost estimation.
Contact Information
- Primary Contact: Elizabeth Calhoun (elizabeth.calhoun@usda.gov)