Animal Husbandry Technician Services for On-going Research

The Regional Procurement Office (RPO) East, intends to negotiate on a sole source basis, pursuant to FAR 6.302-1, with the Geneva Foundation, 950 Broadway, Suite 307, Tacoma, Washington, 98402-4454, for animal husbandry technician services for the VA Puget Sound Healthcare System (VAPSHCS) Seattle. VAPSHCS Animal Research Facility (ARF) requires diverse specialized laboratory research services, of which the Geneva Foundation currently provides with its animal husbandry technicians.

This requirement is for new service contract for the purchase and care of various species of research animals for on-going, VA-funded research to replace Contract 36C26023P1084. Animals are specially bred for this study. Turnover with new staff to include background investigations and training will negatively impact the study because it would halt the care of the animals for an undetermined amount of time.

If trained technicians are not available for the ARF, the research animals will have to be euthanized due to rules outlined in the Guide for Laboratory Animal Care and Use, which would cost the government time, resources, and funding. With the Geneva Foundation animal husbandry technicians properly vetted and trained, the essential services and care for the research animals will proceed seamlessly. It is in the best interest of the government to continue services with the Geneva Foundation.

This is a notice of intent and is not a request for competitive quotes; however, any responsible source who believes they are qualified to meet this unique need may submit a capability statement to the contracting office no later than Wednesday, August 28, 2024, 11:59 AM EST. Interest/capability statements may be sent to Millicent Covert, Contracting Officer, at millicent.covert@va.gov. No telephone responses will be accepted. A determination not to compete the proposed requirement based upon the responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government.