Developing Sugarcane Marker Panel Assay

The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is seeking quotations from small‑business firms to develop and design a mid‑density SNP marker panel (approximately 5,000 markers) for sugarcane genomic research. The work will update an existing custom‑made panel used by the USDA ARS Sugarcane Research Unit and will support genotyping for genomic selection in the CP sugarcane breeding program. The solicitation is a total small‑business set‑aside and will be awarded to the lowest‑priced technically acceptable offer. • Scope: Design, develop, and deliver a 5,000‑SNP marker assay for sugarcane. • Deliverables: Updated SNP panel, assay protocols, validation data, and technical documentation. • Requirements: Must follow the Statement of Work (SOW) attached to the solicitation; compliance with FAR Part 12 (commercial items). • Eligibility: Small business concerns (≤1,000 employees). • Evaluation: Price‑focused, with technical acceptability based on compatibility with USDA’s existing platform. • Location: Work to be performed by the vendor; USDA ARS Sugarcane Field Station, Canal Point, FL will serve as the contracting activity.