National Aeronautics and Space Administration Awarded a Contract to UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON for $2,000,000.00

Summary of Award

On November 14, 2022, a significant contract was formalized between the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the University of Washington, valued at $1,500,000. The contract, recorded under the code "80ARC023CA001," was designated as a "Definitive Contract." This particular agreement centers on an ambitious project aimed at the "extended culture of kidney microphysiological systems and organoids to model acute and chronic exposure to drugs and environmental toxins."

The University of Washington, the recipient of this contract, is a prestigious educational institution located in Seattle, Washington. Known for its cutting-edge research and development (R&D) capabilities, the university is equipped to tackle complex scientific endeavors such as this. It operates under the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code "541715," which specifically relates to research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences, excluding nanotechnology and biotechnology. This classification underscores the university's proficiency in broad scientific research and its capability to engage in advanced physiological studies, a critical aspect of this NASA contract.

The award has a total obligation of $1,500,000 and a projected end date of November 14, 2026, giving this initiative a four-year life span. It commenced operations on November 15, 2022, with the total funding expended so far reaching approximately $1,083,333.38 out of the obligated amount. The contract is structured as a "Firm Fixed Price" arrangement, meaning the price is determined beforehand and does not fluctuate based on the recipient’s expenses. This payment structure is often employed by government agencies to maintain budget predictability and accountability. The solicitation process for this contract was rigorous, with nine offers received. It was awarded through "Full and Open Competition," ensuring that the best possible proposals were assessed. The contact involved "Basic Research" and was not subject to any evaluated preferences or set-asides, meaning it was open to all potential eligible bidders without any bias or predetermined advantages given. The project is being funded and managed by NASA's Ames Research Center, a well-known hub for space research initiatives. This center is situated in the heart of Silicon Valley and is renowned for its innovative contributions in many areas of aeronautics and space technologies. The NASA Ames Research Center is also deeply involved in biotechnology research, making it a fitting location for overseeing such an advanced project that blends space and life sciences. Delving into the transaction history associated with this contract, there have been several notable points of activity. The initial transaction on November 14, 2022, involved an outlay of $500,000, setting the foundation for the project to move forward. Subsequent transactions marked different stages of the project, reflecting the incremental disbursement of funds correlating with project milestones. For instance, on June 30, 2023, an additional $250,000 was injected into the project, signifying ongoing progression and possibly completion of key objectives. Other transactions have been recorded throughout the project timeline but do not involve direct financial outlays. Instead, these transactions, described with "Mod" codes such as P00008, P00007, and so forth, are indicative of contract modifications or administrative updates, often necessary in large-scale projects to accommodate evolving requirements or strategies. Furthermore, the contract involves the Organizational and Product Service Code "AR11," which relates to "Space R&D Services; Space Flight, Research and Supporting Activities; Basic Research." This is aligned with NASA's mission to advance human understanding of space and biological sciences, reflecting the contract’s relevance to both national and international scientific agendas. From a broader perspective, this contract represents a noteworthy collaboration between a leading federal agency and a top-tier educational institution, emphasizing the strategic role of academia in supporting national research priorities. As the project progresses toward its planned completion date in 2026, it is anticipated to yield valuable insights into the effects of drugs and toxins on human kidney tissues, potentially revolutionizing medical and environmental health sciences. In conclusion, this NASA contract with the University of Washington is not merely a financial transaction but a scientific venture poised to significantly enhance our understanding of human physiology in response to external agents. By leveraging the university’s expertise and the NASA Ames Research Center’s resources, this endeavor is set to contribute profoundly to the fields of medical research and environmental science. It exemplifies the dynamic interplay between governmental bodies and educational institutions, each playing a pivotal role in advancing scientific knowledge and technological progress.