Intent to Sole Source to Thermo Fisher Scientific for Specialized Scientific Equipment (KingFisher Apex)
ID: 143041-24-0232Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

COMMERCE, DEPARTMENT OFNATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATIONDEPT OF COMMERCE NOAASEATTLE, WA, 98115, USA

NAICS

Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (334516)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/78699d7cde664de6b7ff5c579ffff030/view
Timeline
    Description

    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) intends to negotiate a sole-source contract with Thermo Fisher Scientific for the acquisition of a KingFisher Apex purification system, essential for the Genetics & Evolution Program at the Northwest Fisheries Science Center. This specialized equipment is critical for advanced genetic and genomic research aimed at conserving marine species across the Pacific Northwest, requiring unique specifications such as a 96-sample processing capacity, compatibility with existing protocols, and features to minimize cross-sample contamination. The procurement aligns with ongoing projects funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, emphasizing its importance for national conservation efforts. Interested parties may submit capability statements by September 10, 2024, to Jacob Gray at jacob.gray@noaa.gov, with the subject line "143041-24-0232."

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    JOFOC_Redacted.pdf
    The document outlines a sole source justification for acquiring a KingFisher Apex nucleic acid isolation and purification instrument from Thermo Fisher Scientific by the Department of Commerce's NOAA. This instrument is vital for the Molecular Genetics Laboratory's evolving needs, particularly for processing environmental DNA samples and supporting projects funded by the Inflation Reduction Act. Thermo Fisher is identified as the only vendor capable of providing the required equipment and certified service, as their KingFisher Apex features a unique combination of specifications essential for the agency’s needs, including a 96-sample processing capacity and compatibility with existing protocols. Market research confirmed that alternatives were insufficient in meeting these technical requirements. As such, this document serves to validate the necessity of utilizing Thermo Fisher Scientific for this acquisition, affirming their sole distributor status and the requirement for authorized OEM parts and certified maintenance technicians. The justification aligns with federal simplified acquisition procedures, confirming the decision to proceed with this singular source procurement.
    NWFSC_KingFisher_April2024_SON.pdf
    The Northwest Fisheries Science Center’s Genetics & Evolution Program seeks to acquire a Thermo Scientific KingFisher Apex purification system to enhance its molecular genetics laboratory's capabilities for high-throughput next-generation sequencing (NGS). This advanced system will enable the purification of DNA and RNA from various extraction protocols, supporting research initiatives aimed at conserving marine species and ecosystems in the Pacific Northwest. Key requirements for the system include magnetic bead-based purification, compatibility with various extraction kits, a capacity for up to 96 samples, user-interchangeable magnetic heads, and integrated heating/cooling capabilities. Additionally, the system should feature a flexible software interface for protocol customization and include a comprehensive service agreement post-warranty. It is essential for minimizing cross-sample contamination and reducing physical strain on laboratory personnel. The purchase aligns with ongoing projects supported by funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, underscoring its importance for national conservation efforts. Delivery is to be directed to the Northwest Fisheries Science Center's Seattle location.
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