NIH Awards $32.6M for SEER Core Infrastructure Research and Development in California

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $32,594,499 ($32.6M)

Contractor: Public Health Institute

Awarding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services

Start Date: 2018-05-01

End Date: 2026-04-30

Contract Duration: 2,921 days

Daily Burn Rate: $11.2K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 20

Pricing Type: COST SHARING

Sector: R&D

Official Description: SEER - CORE INFRASTRUCTURE

Place of Performance

Location: OAKLAND, ALAMEDA County, CALIFORNIA, 94607

State: California Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Health and Human Services obligated $32.6 million to PUBLIC HEALTH INSTITUTE for work described as: SEER - CORE INFRASTRUCTURE Key points: 1. The contract supports R&D in physical, engineering, and life sciences. 2. Full and open competition was utilized, suggesting a competitive bidding process. 3. The award is a delivery order under a larger contract, indicating phased funding. 4. The project duration is approximately 8 years, with a significant total value.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The total award value of $32.6 million over nearly 8 years suggests a substantial investment. Benchmarking against similar R&D contracts in the life sciences sector would provide a clearer picture of its value proposition.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

Full and open competition was employed, which typically leads to more competitive pricing and a wider pool of potential offerors. This method aims to ensure the government receives the best value through market forces.

Taxpayer Impact: The use of full and open competition is generally favorable for taxpayers as it promotes efficiency and cost-effectiveness in government spending.

Public Impact

Supports critical research infrastructure for the SEER program. Potential for advancements in cancer research and public health data. Investment in scientific capabilities within the United States.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Long contract duration may require ongoing monitoring for scope creep or performance issues.
Reliance on a single delivery order for a large sum could warrant scrutiny of the underlying contract's flexibility.

Positive Signals

Full and open competition fosters a healthy market.
Investment in a vital public health initiative.
Clear performance period with defined end date.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls under the Research and Development sector, specifically focusing on physical, engineering, and life sciences. Spending in this area is crucial for scientific advancement and innovation, often characterized by long-term investments and complex project scopes.

Small Business Impact

The data does not indicate whether small businesses were involved in this specific delivery order. Further analysis of the prime contractor and any subcontracts would be needed to assess small business participation.

Oversight & Accountability

The contract is managed by the National Institutes of Health, a reputable agency with established oversight mechanisms. The long duration necessitates consistent monitoring to ensure adherence to project goals and budget.

Related Government Programs

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)
Department of Health and Human Services Contracting
National Institutes of Health Programs

Risk Flags

Long-term commitment requires sustained oversight.
Potential for cost overruns in complex R&D.
Infrastructure obsolescence risk over 8 years.
Dependence on specific research outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Health and Human Services awarded $32.6 million to PUBLIC HEALTH INSTITUTE. SEER - CORE INFRASTRUCTURE

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is PUBLIC HEALTH INSTITUTE.

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 $32.6 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2018-05-01. End: 2026-04-30.

What is the specific nature of the 'SEER - CORE INFRASTRUCTURE' and its importance to public health research?

SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results) is a program vital for cancer statistics collection and research in the U.S. The 'Core Infrastructure' likely refers to the essential data systems, analytical tools, and technological platforms required to support SEER's mission. This funding ensures the continued operation and enhancement of these critical resources, enabling robust cancer surveillance, research, and ultimately, informing public health strategies to reduce cancer burden.

How does the 'Cost Sharing' (PT: COST SHARING) aspect of this award impact the government's financial exposure and the project's overall value?

Cost sharing implies that the recipient (Public Health Institute) contributes a portion of the project costs, reducing the direct financial outlay from the government. This can indicate a strong commitment from the awardee and potentially leverage federal funds for greater impact. However, the exact percentage and nature of the cost sharing are crucial for a full assessment of the government's financial risk and the overall value derived from the investment.

Given the 8-year duration, what mechanisms are in place to ensure the research remains relevant and the infrastructure adaptable to evolving technological needs?

Long-term R&D contracts typically incorporate periodic reviews, milestone-based funding releases, and flexibility clauses to adapt to changing scientific landscapes and technological advancements. The NIH likely has program officers who work closely with the awardee to monitor progress, ensure alignment with research priorities, and facilitate necessary adjustments to the infrastructure and research scope over the contract's lifespan.

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 › N – Health R&D Services

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY

Solicitation ID: N01PC6500374

Offers Received: 20

Pricing Type: COST SHARING (T)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 555 12TH ST STE 1050, OAKLAND, CA, 94607

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: $45,063,998

Exercised Options: $32,594,499

Current Obligation: $32,594,499

Actual Outlays: $17,831,572

Contract Characteristics

Multi-Year Contract: Yes

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: 75N91018D00009

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline