A--Intent to Sole Source Research services with academic affiliate

The Department of Veterans Affairs, RPO East, intends to negotiate a sole-source contract with Case Western Reserve University for specialized research services at the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center. Under solicitation number 36C24E19R0018, engineers from the Advanced Platform Technology Center will support a study titled Hybrid Drug-Eluting Microfluidic Neural Probe for Chronic Drug Infusion. This research focuses on enhancing the stability and quality of electrical signals recorded from neurons via intracortical microelectrodes, which assist individuals with spinal cord injuries in controlling robotic limbs or computers.

The required services involve highly specialized techniques, including rodent electrophysiology and electrode implantation protocols for animal experiments. This procurement is classified under NAICS code 541715 for Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) and PSC code A. The award rationale is based on the existing collaboration between the medical center and its academic affiliate, utilizing engineers specifically trained in the study's technical protocols.

While this notice is not a request for competitive proposals, the government will consider capability statements from responsible sources submitted by May 20, 2019, at 4:00 PM EST. Submissions must be directed to Lynn Portman via email, as telephone responses are not accepted. The Department of Veterans Affairs maintains sole discretion in determining whether to compete the requirement based on any received responses.