NIH Awards Northwestern University $25.3M for Infectious Disease Structural Biology Research

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $25,308,332 ($25.3M)

Contractor: Northwestern University

Awarding Agency: Department of Health and Human Services

Start Date: 2022-09-01

End Date: 2027-08-31

Contract Duration: 1,825 days

Daily Burn Rate: $13.9K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 3

Pricing Type: COST NO FEE

Sector: R&D

Official Description: TO PROVIDE SCIENTIFIC SUPPORT TO THE CENTERS FOR RESEARCH ON STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES.

Place of Performance

Location: CHICAGO, COOK County, ILLINOIS, 60611

State: Illinois Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Health and Human Services obligated $25.3 million to NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY for work described as: TO PROVIDE SCIENTIFIC SUPPORT TO THE CENTERS FOR RESEARCH ON STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES. Key points: 1. Significant investment in critical infectious disease research. 2. Northwestern University is a strong contender in this specialized scientific field. 3. Potential for breakthroughs in understanding and combating diseases. 4. Long-term contract (5 years) indicates sustained need for this research.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The award amount of $25.3 million over five years appears reasonable for a definitive contract focused on specialized scientific research. Benchmarking against similar NIH grants for structural biology research would provide a more precise assessment, but the scope suggests a substantial and complex undertaking.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

The contract was awarded under full and open competition, suggesting a robust price discovery process. This method allows multiple qualified entities to bid, promoting competitive pricing and ensuring the government receives the best value.

Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds are being directed towards vital scientific research with the potential for significant public health benefits, representing a strategic investment.

Public Impact

Advancing scientific understanding of infectious diseases. Potential for new diagnostic tools and treatments. Supporting cutting-edge research infrastructure and expertise. Contributing to national biodefense and public health preparedness. Fostering collaboration between government and academic institutions.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Long-term commitment requires ongoing monitoring of research progress and outcomes.
Reliance on a single institution for this critical research area.

Positive Signals

Focus on a high-priority scientific area (infectious diseases).
Awarded through full and open competition.
Long-term contract allows for sustained research efforts.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the Research and Development in Biotechnology sector, specifically focusing on structural biology of infectious diseases. Spending in this area is crucial for public health and national security, with significant government investment aimed at scientific advancement.

Small Business Impact

The contract was awarded to Northwestern University, a large research institution. There is no indication of specific provisions or subcontracting opportunities for small businesses within this award, which is typical for large-scale research grants.

Oversight & Accountability

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is responsible for overseeing this contract. Oversight would likely involve monitoring research progress, adherence to scientific protocols, and responsible use of federal funds to ensure accountability and achieve research objectives.

Related Government Programs

Research and Development in Biotechnology (except Nanobiotechnology)
Department of Health and Human Services Contracting
National Institutes of Health Programs

Risk Flags

Scientific uncertainty inherent in R&D.
Long-term commitment requires sustained oversight.
Potential for scope creep or shifting research priorities.
Reliance on a single awardee for critical research.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Health and Human Services awarded $25.3 million to NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY. TO PROVIDE SCIENTIFIC SUPPORT TO THE CENTERS FOR RESEARCH ON STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES.

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY.

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 $25.3 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2022-09-01. End: 2027-08-31.

What is the specific scientific impact expected from this research?

This research aims to elucidate the three-dimensional structures of proteins and other molecules critical to infectious diseases. Understanding these structures at an atomic level can reveal vulnerabilities in pathogens, paving the way for the development of novel antiviral drugs, vaccines, and diagnostic tools. The ultimate goal is to provide foundational knowledge that accelerates the fight against a range of infectious agents.

What are the primary risks associated with this long-term research award?

Key risks include the inherent uncertainty of scientific discovery, where research outcomes may not yield immediate or expected results. There's also a risk of project delays due to unforeseen scientific challenges or personnel changes. Furthermore, the long-term nature of the award necessitates continuous monitoring to ensure funds are used effectively and research remains aligned with evolving scientific priorities and public health needs.

How does this award contribute to the government's overall R&D effectiveness?

This award contributes to R&D effectiveness by investing in fundamental scientific inquiry within a critical health domain. By supporting a leading institution like Northwestern University through a competitive process, the government leverages specialized expertise and infrastructure. This foundational research is essential for building a pipeline of future medical countermeasures and enhancing national biosecurity, thereby maximizing the long-term return on R&D investment.

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: 75N93021R00009

Offers Received: 3

Pricing Type: COST NO FEE (S)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 633 CLARK ST, EVANSTON, IL, 60208

Business Categories: Category Business, Educational Institution, Higher Education, Nonprofit Organization, Not Designated a Small Business, Higher Education (Private), Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $30,167,133

Exercised Options: $25,308,332

Current Obligation: $25,308,332

Actual Outlays: $13,998,729

Subaward Activity

Number of Subawards: 53

Total Subaward Amount: $14,842,764

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Timeline