This Notice of Intent is not a request for competitive proposals. No solicitation document exists and no telephone inquiries will be accepted in response to this notice. The Government will not be responsible for any cost incurred in preparation of a proposal. Responsible sources who believe they can provide the required services may submit a written capability statement via e-mail to [email protected], not later than 12:00 a.m. MT on September 11, 2009. Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for determining whether or not to conduct this procurement on a competitive basis. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed effort on a full and open competition basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the Government. The associated North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code is 541712 and small business size standard is 500 employees. Offerors must also be registered in the Central Contractor Registration (CCR) database with a DUNS number and Cage Code. The Government intends to award a Firm-Fixed Price Contract for the following: Development of 96 SNP markers for westslope cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii). This includes development of tested Taqman primers for a diagnostic panel of SNPs to detect hybridization and assess genetic variation in westslope cutthroat trout. In collaboration with RMRS scientists, publish these findings in an international peer-reviewed journal. Design the molecular genetic tools to be used (SNPs to be built using Taqman assays). Tools must allow processing of tens of thousands of genetic samples. Build a panel of 96 SNPs in collaboration with Government. These SNPs must be able to diagnose hybridization in cutthroat trout and other salmonid species as well as assess genetic variation in each of the species the Government will study in the future. The lab must have a fully developed panel of rainbow trout SNPs in house and have the equipment to rapidly screen these for cutthroat trout and some experience with cutthroat trout genetics. The lab must have a proven track record in the amplification and analysis of westslope cutthroat trout. Must have a high-throughput genetic laboratory with equipment to perform high discovery and analysis. Must have necessary primers to work on Oncorhynchus spp. and experience amplifying these regions. Must have experience working with westslope cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii) and with closely related species. Must have a fully developed panel of rainbow trout SNPs in house and have the equipment to rapidly screen these for cutthroat trout. All documentation shall become the property of the Government. Firms responding must indicate the following information: Indicate the business size: small business or small disadvantaged business, veteran owned small business or HUB Zone certified.

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