EPA - Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) - MRAS

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), through the General Services Administration (GSA), is conducting market research to identify potential sources for Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) services. This initiative is spearheaded by the USEPA/CCTE/GLTED-Cincinnati and aims to support various EPA research programs, including SSWR.3, CSS.4.4, CSS.6.4, and CSS.4.3. Historically, the EPA has relied on microarray and quantitative polymerase chain reaction technologies for gene expression studies; however, advancements in sequencing technology have made NGS a more cost-effective and informative option.

The scope of work involves utilizing the NovaSeq 6000 S4 system from Illumina, Inc., a leading biotechnology company known for its state-of-the-art DNA analysis instrumentation. The decision to transition to this platform is driven by its ability to produce high-quality and high-quantity sequencing data at a lower cost compared to traditional methods like microarray systems. The NovaSeq 6000 S4 system offers increased data output and reduced run times, making it an ideal choice for comprehensive gene expression studies.

Contractors are expected to provide services using Illumina's instrumentation at their core facilities, with an emphasis on offering library preparation services compatible with Illumina sequencing technology. In some instances, the USEPA/CCTE/GLTED-Cincinnati will prepare libraries in-house and ship them for sequencing; thus, contractors must be able to accept user-submitted libraries and perform quality assurance checks on them. The primary focus will be on RNA samples from aquatic organisms such as fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas), zebrafish (Danio rerio), and other species like Daphnia magna.