The Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU), located in Bethesda, MD, intends to negotiate on a sole source basis with iLLumina, located in San Diego, California for the iLLumina cBot automated clonal amplification system. The cBot is to be used to support an existing platform at USU, the iLLumina Genome Analyzer IIx. The flow cells that are used in the Genome Analyzer Iix for sequencing are only compatible with the iLLumina cBot. No other system is available for preparing clonal clusters for the Genome Analyzer IIx.

This equipment will be procured in accordance with the procedures of FAR Part 12-Commercial Items and FAR Part 13-Simplified Acquisition Procedures.

Sole source determination is made in accordance with:

FAR Part 13.106-1 Soliciting Competition

(b) Soliciting from a single source

(1) For purchases not exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold, contracting officers may solicit from one source if the contracting officer determines that the circumstances of the contract action deem only one source reasonably available.

The mission of USU is to provide the highest quality education programs in the health sciences to those selected individuals who demonstrate dedication to a health profession career in the Uniformed Services. As such, it is essential USU provide the necessary training and equipment required for our students to become successful doctors and nurses and to be able to provide the best care possible for our soldiers and to support our research efforts.

iLLumina is the only know source that can provided the requested equipment.

This is not a request for quotes and a solicitation package will not be issued. Sources interested in responding to this requirement must be able to provide compelling evidence that they can provide the abovementioned requirement as specified. A determination by the government not to compete this proposed contractual action based upon responses received is solely within the discretion of the government. Responses must be received via email ([email protected]) by 10:00 p.m. EST on September 3, 2012.

Bid Protests Not Available