Request for Information (RFI) on Identifying Basic Research Challenges to Accelerate United States Biotechnology Leadership

Background
The Department of Energy (DOE), specifically the Office of Science's Biological and Environmental Research (BER) program, is seeking input on critical basic research challenges to enhance U.S. biotechnology leadership. This initiative aims to transition from descriptive biology to predictive biosystems design, leveraging foundational science across various biological domains to accelerate the production of bio-advantaged fuels, chemicals, and materials.

The DOE has a legacy in genomic research, including its role in the Human Genome Project, and aims to utilize recent advancements in artificial intelligence and laboratory automation to enhance biotechnology breakthroughs.

Work Details
The RFI seeks perspectives on several key areas:
1. Fundamental Science & Biodesign Goals - Identifying significant near-term scientific bottlenecks preventing the transition from descriptive observations to predictive biosystems design; recognizing missing capabilities necessary for achieving breakthroughs in biosystems design principles.
2. High-Priority Biotechnology Applications - Highlighting specific target areas within biomolecular structures, proteins, microbes/microbiomes, and plant systems that hold potential for industrial breakthroughs and public benefit.
3. Partnerships and Collaboration - Proposing effective models for public-private partnerships, cross-agency cooperation, or leveraging Genesis Mission activities for biosystems design and industrial translation.

Place of Performance
Germantown MD UNITED STATES

Bidder Requirements
Input is sought from a diverse array of stakeholders including educational institutions, DOE National Laboratories, private industry, philanthropic organizations, other Federal agencies interested in collaboration on biosystems design efforts, think tanks, and research organizations. There are no specific bidder requirements mentioned beyond the invitation for input.