DHHS Awards $5.7M for Radiation Dose Response Research to University of Illinois

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $5,709,131 ($5.7M)

Contractor: University of Illinois

Awarding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services

Start Date: 2023-09-29

End Date: 2026-09-17

Contract Duration: 1,084 days

Daily Burn Rate: $5.3K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE

Sector: R&D

Official Description: RADNUC 2201: PERFORMANCE VERIFICATION OF INSTITUTIONAL RADIATION DOSE RESPONSE FOR ACUTE RADIATION SYNDROME (ARS) ANIMAL MODELS (RODENT, RABBIT, MINIPIG, OR NON-HUMAN PRIMATE [NHP]).

Place of Performance

Location: CHICAGO, COOK County, ILLINOIS, 60612

State: Illinois Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Health and Human Services obligated $5.7 million to UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS for work described as: RADNUC 2201: PERFORMANCE VERIFICATION OF INSTITUTIONAL RADIATION DOSE RESPONSE FOR ACUTE RADIATION SYNDROME (ARS) ANIMAL MODELS (RODENT, RABBIT, MINIPIG, OR NON-HUMAN PRIMATE [NHP]). Key points: 1. Research focuses on understanding radiation dose response in animal models for ARS. 2. University of Illinois is the sole awardee for this specific delivery order. 3. The contract is for R&D in Biotechnology, a critical area for public health preparedness. 4. Funding is allocated through a Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type.

Value Assessment

Rating: fair

The contract value of $5.7M for a 3-year research project appears reasonable given the specialized nature of the work. Benchmarking is difficult without specific comparable contracts for ARS animal model research.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

The contract was awarded under full and open competition, suggesting a competitive bidding process. However, this specific delivery order was awarded to a single entity, the University of Illinois.

Taxpayer Impact: This investment aims to improve understanding of radiation effects, potentially leading to better medical countermeasures and preparedness, thus benefiting taxpayers through enhanced public safety.

Public Impact

Enhances understanding of acute radiation syndrome (ARS) in various animal models. Supports development of medical countermeasures for radiation emergencies. Contributes to national biodefense and public health preparedness capabilities. Research findings could inform future radiation protection guidelines. Potential for advancements in treating radiation-induced injuries.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Complexity of animal model research requires specialized expertise.
Long-term effectiveness of research outcomes is uncertain.
Potential for cost overruns in Cost Plus Fixed Fee contracts.

Positive Signals

Addresses a critical national security and public health need.
Awarded through full and open competition.
Supports a reputable research institution.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls under Research and Development in Biotechnology, a sector crucial for medical advancements and national security. Spending in this area is often driven by public health threats and defense needs, with significant government investment.

Small Business Impact

The data indicates no specific set-aside for small businesses in this contract. The awardee is a large research institution, suggesting limited direct opportunities for small businesses unless they are subcontractors.

Oversight & Accountability

The Office of Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) oversees this contract, indicating a focus on preparedness and response capabilities. Standard federal oversight mechanisms for research grants and contracts would apply.

Related Government Programs

Research and Development in Biotechnology (except Nanobiotechnology)
Department of Health and Human Services Contracting
Office of Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response Programs

Risk Flags

Research complexity and potential for unforeseen challenges.
Long lead times for research and development outcomes.
Dependence on specific animal models for translational relevance.
Potential for budget fluctuations impacting long-term research continuity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Health and Human Services awarded $5.7 million to UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS. RADNUC 2201: PERFORMANCE VERIFICATION OF INSTITUTIONAL RADIATION DOSE RESPONSE FOR ACUTE RADIATION SYNDROME (ARS) ANIMAL MODELS (RODENT, RABBIT, MINIPIG, OR NON-HUMAN PRIMATE [NHP]).

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Health and Human Services (Office of Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $5.7 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2023-09-29. End: 2026-09-17.

What is the expected impact of this research on the development of effective treatments for ARS?

The research aims to establish reliable dose-response relationships in various animal models, which is foundational for understanding ARS pathology. This knowledge is critical for preclinical testing of potential medical countermeasures and for refining treatment protocols, ultimately accelerating the development of effective therapies for radiation exposure.

What are the primary risks associated with the Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type for this research?

The main risk with CPFF contracts is the potential for cost overruns, as the government bears the cost of all allowable expenses. While a fixed fee provides some incentive for efficiency, the contractor may have less motivation to control costs compared to fixed-price contracts, potentially leading to higher overall expenditure for the government.

How will the effectiveness of this research be measured and ensured?

Effectiveness will likely be measured by the successful establishment of validated dose-response curves and the publication of findings in peer-reviewed journals. Milestones within the contract will track progress. The agency's oversight and review of research reports and data will ensure adherence to scientific rigor and project objectives.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Scientific Research and Development Services › Research and Development in Biotechnology (except Nanobiotechnology)

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

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE

Solicitation ID: RTOR RADNUC-2201

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 809 S MARSHFIELD RM 520, CHICAGO, IL, 60612

Business Categories: Category Business, Educational Institution, Government, Higher Education, U.S. National Government, Not Designated a Small Business, Higher Education (Public), U.S. Regional/State Government

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $12,196,312

Exercised Options: $5,709,131

Current Obligation: $5,709,131

Actual Outlays: $2,532,152

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: 75A50122D00015

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline