It is the intent of the National Library of Medicine (NLM) to enter into a sole source procurement with University of Missouri-Rolla, Office of Sponsored Programs , 1870 Miner Circle, 215 ME Annex, Rolla, MO 65409-1300, for the purpose of building upon prior work for the analysis, design and development of techniques for analyzing structure and content of digitized histology images, centered on the epithelial regions; this analysis includes color, texture, geometry, and object identification within regions, as well as identifying biologically-relevant structures, such as cell nuclei, cytoplasm, and stroma/epithelium boundaries. The University of Missouri-Rolla is the only known source capable of providing the required services. This action is under the authority of 41 U.S.C.253 (c) (1), as set forth in FAR 6.302-1 and HHSAR 306.302-1. Only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements.

This acquisition will be processed under FAR Part 35 - Research and Development Contracting. The North American Industry Classification System Code (NAICS) is 611310- Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools with a small business size standard of $7.0 million.

NLM anticipates that an award will be made on or about September 20, 2012. The period of performance is anticipated to be twelve (12) months, with options to extend the term for two (2) twelve (12) month periods. Inclusion of options does not commit the Government to exercise the options and is subject to available funding.

This is not a solicitation for competitive Proposals, nor is a RFP available. However, if any other interested party believes that it can meet the requirement it may submit a statement of capabilities. The capability statement and any other information furnished must be in writing, and must contain material in sufficient detail to all NLM to determine if the party can meet all of the foregoing requirements. Proposals must be accompanied by descriptive literature, warranties, and/or other information that demonstrates that the vendor is capable of successfully performing the requirement.

The University of Missouri-Rolla is the only known source to NLM that can meet the above requirements due to the prior services previously purchased.

Capability statements and related materials must be received in this office by 12:00 pm local prevailing time on Monday, September 17, 2012 via e-mail to [email protected], ATTN: Keturah Busey.

If you have any questions, please contact Keturah Busey, Contract Specialist, by email at [email protected], by phone at (301) 496-6546. Collect calls will not be accepted.

A determination by the government not to compete this proposed acquisition based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.

ALL RESPONSIBLE SOURCES MAY SUBMIT A QUOTATION WHICH, IF TIMELY RECEIVED, SHALL BE CONSIDERED BY THE GOVERNENT.