Request for standing offer for the measurement of carbon and oxygen isotopes from biologically made mineral structures

This requirement is for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO). Title: Request for standing offer for the measurement of carbon and oxygen isotopes from biologically made mineral structures OBJECTIVES OF THE REQUIREMENT To prepare sample specimens, complete carbon, (13C/12C) and oxygen (18O/16O) analyses on biologically made mineral structures (i.e. otoliths, teeth and bones) using the Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry, and standardize data outputs. BACKGROUND Research methodologies such as Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) allow us to measure environmental change and changes in biodemographics of aquatic species. This technique allows us to infer environmental parameters (past and present) experienced by aquatic species through the examination of biological derived minerals (biominerals) that have a calcium-based origin. Biominerals occur in the form of teeth, bones, and otoliths (ear stones) in aquatic organisms. Biominerals incorporate trace elements and associated isotopes into their calcium carbonate or calcium phosphate structures. Once incorporated into an otolith, elements/isotopes remain unchanged over time. Presently, biominerals such as otoliths and associated trace elements and isotopes have been applied to the understanding of migratory movements, thermal habitat preferences of juvenile fish species, diets, and fisheries stock structuring. Specifically, analyses of oxygen and carbon isotope analyses via SIMS are needed in the present day to further our understanding of fish habitat use, marine conservation, and climate change within Arctic ecosystems. PERIOD OF STANDING OFFER The period for making call-ups against the Standing Offer is from December 1, 2018 to November 30, 2021, with 2 options to extend the Standing Offer for an additional one year period. MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS Offers will be evaluated in accordance with the mandatory evaluation criteria as detailed in the RFP. Offerors’ offers must clearly demonstrate that they meet all Mandatory Requirements for the offer to be considered for further evaluation. Offers not meeting the mandatory criteria will be excluded from further consideration. SELECTION METHOD An offer must comply with the requirements of the Request for Standing Offers and meet all mandatory technical evaluation criteria to be declared responsive. The responsive offer with the lowest evaluated price will be recommended for issuance of a standing offer. Enquiries regarding this RFP requirement are to be submitted in writing to the following: Nancy Paquette A/Team Lead Materiel and Procurement Services Fisheries and Oceans Canada 301 Bishop Drive Fredericton (NB) E3C 2M6 Email: DFOtenders-soumissionsMPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca