NOAA Awards $2.9M Contract to University Corporation for Atmospheric Research for Scientific Performance Services
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $2,898,034 ($2.9M)
Contractor: University Corporation for Atmospheric Research
Awarding Agency: Department of Commerce
Start Date: 2025-07-17
End Date: 2026-09-01
Contract Duration: 411 days
Daily Burn Rate: $7.1K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: GOMO/OAP SCIENTIFIC PERFORMANCE SERVICES
Place of Performance
Location: BOULDER, BOULDER County, COLORADO, 80301
State: Colorado Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Commerce obligated $2.9 million to UNIVERSITY CORPORATION FOR ATMOSPHERIC RESEARCH for work described as: GOMO/OAP SCIENTIFIC PERFORMANCE SERVICES Key points: 1. Contract awarded to a single entity for scientific performance services. 2. Competition method indicates potential for better pricing through open bidding. 3. Risk is moderate due to the cost-plus-fixed-fee structure. 4. Spending falls within the R&D sector, specifically physical sciences.
Value Assessment
Rating: fair
The contract is a Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) type, which can lead to higher costs if not managed carefully. Benchmarking against similar R&D contracts is difficult without more detailed cost breakdowns.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under 'FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES,' suggesting an initial limited scope that was then opened. This method aims to ensure fair pricing and access to a broad range of qualified contractors.
Taxpayer Impact: The use of full and open competition is generally positive for taxpayers, as it promotes a competitive environment that can drive down costs and improve value for money.
Public Impact
Supports critical scientific research and development for NOAA. Enhances the understanding of atmospheric phenomena. Potential for advancements in weather forecasting and climate modeling.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 70 / 10
Warning Flags
- Cost-plus-fixed-fee contracts can incentivize cost overruns if not closely monitored.
- The specific performance metrics and deliverables need rigorous oversight to ensure value.
Positive Signals
- Awarded through full and open competition, indicating a robust selection process.
- Contract duration is reasonable for the scope of scientific services.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls under the Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences sector. Spending in this area is crucial for scientific advancement but can be subject to long development cycles and unpredictable outcomes.
Small Business Impact
The data does not indicate whether small businesses were involved in the subcontracting opportunities for this contract. Further analysis would be needed to assess small business participation.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight will be critical to ensure the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research meets performance objectives and manages costs effectively under the CPFF structure. NOAA's contracting office will be responsible for monitoring progress and adherence to contract terms.
Related Government Programs
- Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)
- Department of Commerce Contracting
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Programs
Risk Flags
- Cost-plus-fixed-fee structure requires diligent cost monitoring.
- Potential for scope creep in R&D projects.
- Reliance on a single entity for critical scientific services.
- Need for clear performance metrics and oversight.
Tags
research-and-development-in-the-physical, department-of-commerce, co, delivery-order, 1m-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Commerce awarded $2.9 million to UNIVERSITY CORPORATION FOR ATMOSPHERIC RESEARCH. GOMO/OAP SCIENTIFIC PERFORMANCE SERVICES
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is UNIVERSITY CORPORATION FOR ATMOSPHERIC RESEARCH.
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Commerce (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $2.9 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2025-07-17. End: 2026-09-01.
How does the fixed fee component compare to industry standards for similar R&D services?
Determining if the fixed fee is competitive requires detailed benchmarking against contracts with similar scope, complexity, and risk profiles. Without access to the fee negotiation details or comparable contract data, it's challenging to assess its reasonableness. Factors like the contractor's specialized expertise, overhead structure, and the perceived risk of the research project influence the acceptable fee range.
What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for this contract, and how will they be measured?
The effectiveness of this contract hinges on clearly defined and measurable KPIs related to scientific performance. NOAA must establish robust metrics for evaluating research progress, data quality, and the achievement of specific scientific objectives. Regular performance reviews and independent verification of results are essential to ensure the contractor is delivering the expected scientific value and that taxpayer funds are being used efficiently.
What is the potential for follow-on work or broader application of the research outcomes?
The potential for follow-on work or broader application depends on the specific research objectives and the success of the initial project. If the research yields significant breakthroughs or valuable data, it could lead to further funding opportunities for expanded studies or the development of new technologies. NOAA should actively seek to leverage the research outcomes for policy development, operational improvements, or public benefit.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Scientific Research and Development Services › Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)
Product/Service Code: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT › Natural Resources and Environment R&D Services
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES
Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 3090 CENTER GREEN DR, BOULDER, CO, 80301
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Tax Exempt, Nonprofit Organization, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $2,898,034
Exercised Options: $2,898,034
Current Obligation: $2,898,034
Actual Outlays: $836,233
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: YES
Parent Contract
Parent Award PIID: 1305M225D0031
IDV Type: IDC
Timeline
Start Date: 2025-07-17
Current End Date: 2026-09-01
Potential End Date: 2026-09-01 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2026-03-12
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