The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Biochemical Science Division, Metrology for Gene Expression Program, is developing a measurement and standards infrastructure for gene expression. Working with the External RNA Control Consortium, NIST is developing a set of RNA controls to be used in validating gene expression assays. Under this procurement, the successful Contractor shall provide the following: (1) Templates for manufacture of the approximately 150 varieties of RNA molecules, quality assured; and (2) RNA molecules in sufficient quantity appropriately pooled. Tasks in this procurement shall include: (1) The synthesis of random, anti-genomic sequences; (2) Cloning of artificial and natural sequences as inserts into a common, public-domain vector, suitable for in vitro transcription (IVT); (3) Manufacture and characterization of RNA; and (4) Creation, according to specifications, of mixtures of the RNA molecules. The total period of performance is anticipated to be one year from the date of award. Delivery shall be FOB DESTINATION. This requirement is 100% set-aside for small business. The NAICS code for this requirement is 339999 with a small business size standard of 500 employees. The competitive Request for Quotation (RFQ), specifications, RFQ amendments, and all questions and answers related to this procurement shall be made available via the Internet at HTTP://WWW.FEDBIZOPPS.GOV under RFQ number SB1341-06-Q-0119. The RFQ is anticipated for release to the vendor community on or about January 10, 2006, and will only be available via the Internet at the above web site. Potential offerors are responsible for accessing the web site. Interested parties must respond to the RFQ in order to be considered for award of any resultant contract. No written solicitation document is available, telephone requests shall not be honored, and no bidders list shall be maintained. Potential offerors are requested to direct all questions via e-mail to [email protected].

Bid Protests Not Available