Notice of Intent to Sole Source services to maintain regular access to Advanced Photon Source (APS) - SER-CAT beam lines

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Nation Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD), Influenza Division (ID) intends to award a sole source Firm-fixed-price purchase order to The University of Georgia Research Foundation, Inc. (UGARF) to maintain regular access to their Advanced Photon Source (APS) - SER-CAT beam lines for sample processing and data collection using their highly specialized equipment and support from their onsite qualified laboratory personnel to collect, analyze, interpret, and evaluate structural data from viral proteins from pandemic or seasonal influenza viruses.  This contract action is for commercial services for which the Government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source under the authority of FAR 12.102(a). NAICS 541380 - Testing Laboratories and Services.  UGARF is the only source providing the most advanced macromolecular crystallography capabilities currently available in the United States. Use of lower-intensity beamlines available through other facilities would result in reduced data quality and diminished analytical capability.  In addition, UGARF, through the use of their APS - SER-CAT beam lines, provides CDC guaranteed beam access during public health emergencies, which is critical to supporting urgent influenza response and preparedness activities. Use of an alternative facility is not feasible due to significant compatibility and transition limitations currently in place.  This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotations; however, all Quotations/ responses received within 15 days of the issuance of this notice shall be considered by the government.  A determination by the government not to complete this proposed contract 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.  Any quotation/response should be emailed to the contract specialist at email zvm0@cdc.gov by 07/05/2026.