Benchtop Ultra-Long Read DNA Sequencer

Summary (Newest Update)

Background The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is seeking to acquire a Benchtop Ultra-Long Read DNA Sequencer to support genomic analysis and de novo genome assembly for invasive and native weed species. This acquisition aims to enhance the understanding of complex herbicide resistance mechanisms in plant genomes, which are often large and intricate due to repetitive regions and polyploidy. The contract is set aside for small business concerns, promoting participation from smaller entities in the procurement process. Work Details The contract involves the purchase of one (1) Benchtop Ultra-Long Read DNA Sequencer with installation. The sequencer must meet the following specifications: 1. Must be new and not refurbished. 2. Capable of producing reads greater than 20kb from high molecular weight DNA. 3. Capable of direct RNA sequencing without cDNA synthesis. 4. Must produce ultra-long reads of at least 2 MB. 5. Must accurately sequence repetitive, GC-rich regions of a genome. 6. Must allow for direct identification of epigenetic modifications alongside nucleotide sequences. 7. Must work with upstream and downstream pipelines, starting from high molecular weight DNA extractions to library preparation, producing results useful in genome assembly pipelines and diversity analysis. 8. Capable of generating reads covering large complex grass and dicot genomes (at least 5GB in size) at 5-10x coverage. 9. Manufacturer support and training must be available. 10. The system dimensions must fit on a benchtop: not exceeding 300mm (W) x 200mm (H) x 500mm (D). 11. Power requirements: 115 V/60 Hz (US). 12. Shipping costs must be included in the quote. Period of Performance From June 12, 2026, to August 12, 2026. Place of Performance USDA-ARS Wheat Health Genetics and Quality Unit located at Pullman, WA. Bidder Requirements Bidders must provide evidence that their quoted products meet or exceed all specified requirements listed in Attachment 2 - Specifications. All supplies must include the Place of Manufacture in their quote. Incumbent Analysis (see Incumbents section for more detail) This opportunity appears to have a closely related prior contract with Government Scientific Source under solicitation/contract 1232SA25P0546 (PROMETHION 2 integrated benchtop nanopore sequencer with a 1-year license and consumables) valued at $110,331 for 09/25/25–09/24/26. The current requirement for a benchtop ultra-long read DNA sequencer (including installation and support) aligns with the same nanopore benchtop sequencing platform category, suggesting the prior purchase may be a continuation or replacement/add-on of similar sequencing capability and associated licensing/support.