Inactive

USAMRD-G recommend the Embassy Tbilisi use other than full and open competition for the acquisition of a MiSeq RUO (part #SY-410-1003) device and its installation in USAMRD-G laboratory space with the... USAMRD-G recommend the Embassy Tbilisi use other than full and open competition for the acquisition of a MiSeq RUO (part #SY-410-1003) device and its installation in USAMRD-G laboratory space with the Richard Lugar Center for Public Health. Estimated cost is $122,000. This would be an equipment purchase, via sole source to ELTA 90 Molecular Genetics LLC (ELTA90MG; SAM.GOV UEI C9RUAA1CRN84) to replace existing Illumina MiSeq device before it fails (already is beyond life expectancy and when calibrated it was at the very edge of passing). The device provides high throughput/long-read sequencing capability critical for USAMRD-G to meet its biotechnology-based requirements associated with its force health protection surveillance / collaboration mission. This device is the workhorse for USAMRD-G’s sequencing efforts and provides the highest confidence data needed for our pathogen discovery efforts that are used to protect the Warfighter. While there are other devices that perform similar functions, how they are used and their results aren’t identical. Thus all our procedures are tailored to use of the Illumina MiSeq device. Switching to a different device would require extra & duplicative work (sequencing is Very expensive) to provide confidence that the different platform function and resulting data meets the same parameters all our current process provide. This would include developing the new processes. This delay / extra expense Also, would put our funded work (on a limited budget) in jeopardy. The statutory authority permitting other than full and open competition is 10 USC 3204(a)(1)) as implemented by the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 6.302-1 entitled, “Only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements.” ELTA90MG, a subsidiary of ELTA90 (in Romania) is the only authorized representative of Illumina Inc. in Georgia (https://www.illumina.com/company/doing-business-with-illumina/channel-partners-partnerships/distributors.html). ELTA90MG has provided and continues to provide services under other POs (e.g. 19GG8022P0423, 19GG8022P0645, & 19GG8023P0016) delivering the required expertise / resources to bring our original MiSeq device up to specifications / operational. The Contracting Officer determines that the anticipated price(s) will be fair and reasonable based on preceding contract prices by the vendor and the technical expertise / experience base of the USAMRD-G staff. The vendor recommended is the incumbent providing service for the MiSeq and is the only know authorized representative of the manufacturer (Illumina Inc) in Georgia; see https://emea.illumina.com/company/doing-business-with-illumina/channel-partners-partnerships/distributors.html .