NIH Spends $31.7M on Biomedical Research with Washington University Over 20 Years
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $31,705,192 ($31.7M)
Contractor: Washington University, the
Awarding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services
Start Date: 1992-09-30
End Date: 2012-09-29
Contract Duration: 7,304 days
Daily Burn Rate: $4.3K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 21
Pricing Type: COST SHARING
Sector: R&D
Official Description: BIOMEDICAL (BASIC)
Place of Performance
Location: SAINT LOUIS, SAINT LOUIS County, MISSOURI, 63130
State: Missouri Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Health and Human Services obligated $31.7 million to WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY, THE for work described as: BIOMEDICAL (BASIC) Key points: 1. Significant long-term investment in biomedical research. 2. Washington University is a key research partner. 3. Contract duration suggests sustained program support. 4. Potential for high-impact scientific discoveries.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The contract value of $31.7 million over 20 years averages to approximately $1.58 million per year. This seems reasonable for a large-scale, long-term biomedical research project, especially considering the potential for significant discoveries.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating a competitive bidding process. This method generally leads to better price discovery and ensures the government receives competitive offers.
Taxpayer Impact: The substantial investment supports critical research, potentially leading to advancements that benefit public health and the economy, justifying the taxpayer expenditure.
Public Impact
Supports cutting-edge biomedical research with potential for public health breakthroughs. Long-term funding provides stability for research teams and projects. Enhances the research capabilities of Washington University.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Long contract duration could lead to scope creep or evolving needs.
- Lack of specific performance metrics makes outcome assessment difficult.
Positive Signals
- Sustained investment in a critical research area.
- Utilizes a well-established research institution.
- Awarded through full and open competition.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the Biomedical (Basic) research sector, a critical area for scientific advancement and public health. Spending benchmarks in this sector can vary widely based on project scope and duration, but long-term, multi-million dollar awards are common for foundational research.
Small Business Impact
No specific information is provided regarding small business participation in this contract. The primary awardee is a large university, and it's unclear if subcontracts were utilized or if small businesses were involved in the competitive process.
Oversight & Accountability
The long duration of the contract (20 years) necessitates ongoing oversight to ensure funds are used effectively and research objectives are met. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) would be responsible for monitoring progress and performance.
Related Government Programs
- Department of Health and Human Services Contracting
- National Institutes of Health Programs
Risk Flags
- Long contract duration may pose risks if research focus shifts or becomes obsolete.
- Lack of specific performance metrics in the provided data.
- Potential for cost overruns over a 20-year period.
- Dependence on a single institution for a significant research investment.
Tags
department-of-health-and-human-services, mo, definitive-contract, 10m-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Health and Human Services awarded $31.7 million to WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY, THE. BIOMEDICAL (BASIC)
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY, THE.
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Health and Human Services (National Institutes of Health).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $31.7 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 1992-09-30. End: 2012-09-29.
What specific research areas were funded under this contract, and what were the key milestones or deliverables?
The data indicates 'BIOMEDICAL (BASIC)' research. Without further details, it's impossible to specify the exact research areas. Key milestones and deliverables would typically be outlined in the contract's statement of work, detailing expected scientific progress, publications, or discoveries over the 20-year period.
How was the value of $31.7 million determined, and were there mechanisms for adjusting funding based on research progress or outcomes?
The total value was likely determined based on projected research needs over 20 years, including personnel, equipment, and supplies. Cost-sharing suggests a partnership where both the government and the university contribute. Adjustments would typically be managed through contract modifications based on performance reviews and evolving research requirements.
What is the expected return on investment for this $31.7 million expenditure in basic biomedical research?
The return on investment for basic research is often measured in scientific advancement, new knowledge, and potential long-term health benefits rather than immediate financial returns. Discoveries could lead to new treatments, diagnostic tools, or a deeper understanding of diseases, ultimately saving lives and reducing healthcare costs.
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Offers Received: 21
Pricing Type: COST SHARING (T)
Contractor Details
Address: ONE BROOKINGS DR, SAINT LOUIS, MO, 63130
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Tax Exempt, Educational Institution, Higher Education, Nonprofit Organization, Not Designated a Small Business, Higher Education (Private), Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $682,901,306
Exercised Options: $663,161,924
Current Obligation: $31,705,192
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL ITEM PROCEDURES NOT USED
Timeline
Start Date: 1992-09-30
Current End Date: 2012-09-29
Potential End Date: 2012-09-29 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2024-11-23
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