The successful Contractor will provide guidance and oversight in the administration and disbursement of NIAID grant/contract funds and material purchases via the NIAID-managed disbursement service center, the Mali Service Center. The Contractor shall assume the operation of the MSC, and ultimately prepare the MSC to operate independently.

The Contractor will be required to provide support for the operation of NIAID-funded activities in Mali. This support will include, but not be limited to, the disbursement of payroll, which is funded under a separate NIAID contract for Malian staff at the University of Bamako, who work on these programs; the disbursement of payroll of staff working under NIAID extramural grants; the payment of expenses in support of field studies; the payment of expenses related to the operations of laboratory facilities; the facilitation and payment of travel of scientists; and assisting in the management of operations of research activities in Mali.

Independently, and not as an agent of the Government, the Contractor shall furnish all the necessary equipment, services, qualified personnel, and material, not otherwise provided by the Government, as needed to perform the Statement of Work. This requirement will be publicized using full and open competition procedures. A cost-reimbursement type contract for these services is anticipated. NIAID intends to award a one year contract beginning approximately September 29, 2011 with the option for four additional contract years. The Request for Proposal is expected to be available for download on www.fedbizopps.gov on or about March 24, 2011.