The FBI is in the process of validating multiple NGS protocols that require reagents from New England BioLabs, Inc. Without these reagents, the DNA cannot be properly prepared for Next Generation Sequencing, which will in turn restrict the FBI Laboratory's ability to validate NGS for casework implementation. The NEB reagents are the only reagents on the market that work with low quantities of DNA, allow for sample preparation in a single tube, and include looped DNA adapters. These features are critical to the NGS protocols under development by the FBI because they improve workflow efficiency and final data quality. In addition, when the FBI tested NEB reagents side-by-side with reagents from other vendors, the NEB reagents performed the best and have now been incorporated in protocols currently in use by the FBI.

Based on market research, and Government end-users, it has been determined that New England BioLabs, Inc., is the sole manufacturer and distributor of the required NEBNext consumable supplies; therefore, they are the only company capable of providing the necessary supplies.

This notice will be distributed solely through the General Services Administration's Federal Business Opportunities (FBO) Website (www.fedbizopps.gov). Interested parties are responsible for monitoring the FBO site to ensure they have the most up-to-date information about this acquisition. The North American Classification System Code is 325414, Biological Product (except Diagnostic) Manufacturing.

The FBI intends to negotiate with only one source under the authority of FAR 6.302-1. Interested parties may identify their interests and capability to respond to this requirement to the attention of: Kemper Wood, email address: [email protected] by Tuesday, May 1, 2018 (12:00 pm Eastern). Emailed responses will only be considered. Information received will be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct a competitive procurement. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed contract based upon responses to this notice is at the discretion of the Government.

Vendors must be registered in SAM, effective July 29, 2012 to receive government contracts. The FBI uses a financial system that has a direct interface with SAM. Please ensure that your company's SAM information is updated and accurate. This includes TIN, EFT, DUNS, addresses and contact information. The EFT banking information on file in SAM will be what the FBI uses to process payment to your organization.