HHS awards $1.1B to Vanderbilt for R&D in Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $11,162,052 ($11.2M)

Contractor: Vanderbilt University, the

Awarding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services

Start Date: 2002-06-15

End Date: 2008-03-08

Contract Duration: 2,093 days

Daily Burn Rate: $5.3K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 6

Pricing Type: COST NO FEE

Sector: R&D

Place of Performance

Location: NASHVILLE, DAVIDSON County, TENNESSEE, 37232

State: Tennessee Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Health and Human Services obligated $11.2 million to VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY, THE for work described as: Key points: 1. Significant investment in R&D, potentially driving innovation. 2. Large contract value suggests a substantial scope of work. 3. Competition method is 'FULL AND OPEN', indicating broad market access. 4. Sector focus on Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences R&D.

Value Assessment

Rating: fair

The contract value of $1.1B over 6 years is substantial. Without specific deliverables or comparable contracts, assessing value for money is difficult. The 'COST NO FEE' award type suggests costs are reimbursed, requiring strong oversight.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

The 'FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION' method is positive for price discovery. However, the long duration and 'COST NO FEE' structure could lead to cost overruns if not managed effectively.

Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds are supporting significant research, with potential long-term benefits but also risks of inefficient spending if not closely monitored.

Public Impact

Supports advancements in critical scientific fields. Potential for breakthroughs with broad societal impact. Long-term funding commitment allows for sustained research efforts.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Cost control given 'COST NO FEE' structure
Performance monitoring over long contract duration
Ensuring research aligns with strategic priorities

Positive Signals

Fosters innovation through sustained R&D investment
Leverages expertise from a leading research institution
Open competition promotes market access

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the R&D sector, specifically focusing on physical, engineering, and life sciences. Spending in this area is crucial for technological advancement and public health, but often involves high uncertainty and long development cycles.

Small Business Impact

The contract does not indicate any specific set-asides for small businesses. Given the large value and research focus, it's likely that prime contractor Vanderbilt University would subcontract to specialized firms, potentially including small businesses.

Oversight & Accountability

The 'COST NO FEE' award type necessitates robust oversight from HHS to ensure costs are reasonable and allocable. Regular audits and performance reviews are critical for accountability.

Related Government Programs

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences
Department of Health and Human Services Contracting
National Institutes of Health Programs

Risk Flags

Potential for cost overruns
Difficulty in measuring R&D ROI
Long-term performance monitoring challenges
Ensuring alignment with evolving research needs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Health and Human Services awarded $11.2 million to VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY, THE. See the official description on USAspending.

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is VANDERBILT 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 $11.2 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2002-06-15. End: 2008-03-08.

What specific research outcomes are expected from this $1.1B investment, and how will their achievement be measured?

The contract details should outline specific research objectives and milestones. Measuring success would involve tracking progress against these defined goals, peer review of published findings, and assessment of the potential impact of discoveries. Without clear metrics, it's difficult to ascertain the value derived from such a significant investment.

What are the primary risks associated with a 'COST NO FEE' contract of this magnitude and duration?

The primary risks include potential cost overruns if expenditures are not meticulously tracked and justified, scope creep without corresponding budget adjustments, and a reduced incentive for the contractor to control costs due to the fee structure. Effective government oversight is paramount to mitigate these risks.

How does this contract contribute to the Department of Health and Human Services' strategic research priorities?

This contract likely supports HHS's broader mission in advancing public health and scientific understanding. The specific alignment would depend on the research areas funded, such as disease prevention, medical technology, or basic biological sciences. Ensuring the research directly addresses agency priorities is key to maximizing its effectiveness.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Scientific Research and Development Services › Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences

Product/Service Code: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT › N – Health R&D Services

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Offers Received: 6

Pricing Type: COST NO FEE (S)

Contractor Details

Address: 2100 W END AVE STE 900, NASHVILLE, TN, 37203

Business Categories: Category Business, Educational Institution, Higher Education, Not Designated a Small Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $26,339,001

Exercised Options: $22,266,367

Current Obligation: $11,162,052

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL ITEM PROCEDURES NOT USED

Timeline