BPA for Virus Isolation and PCR Analysis   2

Background
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is seeking to establish a Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) for virus isolation and molecular RNA analysis services to support the Upper Midwest Water Science Center. This initiative aims to address the ongoing challenges posed by avian influenza virus (AIV), which has significantly impacted wildlife and livestock health in North America.

The BPA will facilitate recurring needs for these specialized laboratory services over a four-year term.

Work Details
The contractor will provide comprehensive laboratory services including:
1. Virus isolation and molecular RNA analysis from environmental samples, specifically focusing on avian influenza virus.
2. Ensure compliance with laboratory biocontainment practices and safety protocols, including maintaining appropriate permits for handling infectious agents.
3. Utilize calibrated and certified equipment for processing, analyzing, storing, and disposing of samples.
4. Conduct egg inoculation, extraction, PCR analysis, and participate in result interpretation and manuscript writing for publication.
5. Perform multiple viral isolation passages as needed and conduct titrations on concentrated viral elute upon request.
6. Extract viral RNA following established protocols and perform molecular detection of the influenza A virus using real-time reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR).
7. Ship any samples suspect positive for H5 to USDA NVSL for confirmation of pathogenicity and follow proper disposal procedures for any confirmed positive results.

Period of Performance
September 16, 2026 through September 15, 2030

Place of Performance
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must have an active registration in the System for Award Management at the time of submitting an offer or quotation and at the time of award. The contractor's facility must meet specific laboratory biocontainment practices defined by Biosafety Level standards, and personnel must be trained to adhere to USGS protocols.

Incumbent Analysis (see Incumbents section for more detail)
This opportunity appears to have a confirmed incumbent based on prior contract 140G0224P0267 awarded to Davis University of California for “virus isolation and PCR sample analysis services” for the USGS Upper Midwest Water Science Center in Wisconsin (09/03/24–09/08/26) valued at $79,500. The current BPA’s scope—virus isolation, egg inoculation, viral RNA extraction, real-time RT-PCR detection, and related sample handling and interpretation—tracks closely with the prior work description, suggesting the BPA may continue the same recurring laboratory support for AIV-focused environmental testing.