Medical analysis services

Tender description

UK Biobank requires a single sequencing provider that can offer Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) services that meet the requirements outlined in the specification. The key parameters for any bidder are as follows: — There is up to GBP 30m funding available for the conduct of a vanguard phase of whole genome sequencing, — The scope of the tender is for sequencing (and certain named ancillary) services only, — The sequencing for this vanguard phase should ideally be completed by the end of 2019. This procurement is being conducted under regulation 74 of the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 (as amended) as a light touch procedure, although we are voluntarily adopting a process akin to the open procedure. UK Biobank is issuing this tender to invite bids to conduct a vanguard phase of whole genome sequencing. The principal purpose of this vanguard phase is to inform and develop the protocols and processes for the whole genome sequencing of all UK Biobank’s 500 000 participants which is expected to take place (subject to confirmation of funding) in the next few years. UK Biobank is a major national health resource, and a registered charity in its own right, with the aim of improving the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of serious and life-threatening illnesses – including cancer, heart diseases, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, eye disorders, depression and forms of dementia. UK Biobank recruited 500 000 people aged between 40-69 years in 2006-2010 from across the country to take part in this project. They have undergone measures, provided blood, urine and saliva samples for future analysis, given detailed information about themselves and agreed to have their health followed. Over many years this will build into a powerful resource to help scientists discover why some people develop particular diseases and others do not.