The statutory authority permitting other than full and open competition is 41 U.S.C. 253(c)(1) as cited in FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i). The Polio and Picornavirus Lab Branch (PPLB) is the primary research and diagnostic laboratory in WHO Global Polio Laboratory Network. There are currently three WellPro instruments in use in poliovirus serology that perform critical steps in operating procedures. Wellpro 3000 automated performs serial dilutions and plate-to-plate reagent transfers and is the only one which will work with CDC's serology testing and is compatible with our current diagnostic methods and protocols. This equipment is unique in capability and no other manufacturer can meet the above requirements.

Responsible sources that believe they possess the expertise and capabilities identified above are encouraged to submit to the Contract Specialist, within 5 days from the posting date of this notice, their written capabilities statement, proposal or quotation which shall be considered by the agency. Please forward the capability statement and/or pricing information to the attention of Tonya S. Justice, Contract Specialist, Reference #2013-M-54903, Centers for Disease Control, Procurement and Grants Office, MS K-94, 2877 Brandywine Road, Atlanta, GA 30341; or via email at [email protected].

All vendors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) prior to an award of a federal contract. The website is: www.sam.gov.

The Government will review any/all capabilities statements and pricing information submitted and determine if other qualified sources do exist that could provide this requirement. Information received in response to this announcement will be used solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement for these services in the future.

If no affirmative responses are received within 5 days, negotiations will be conducted with ProGroup Instrument Corp. as the only source and a contract will be issued without any additional notices being posted.