B -- RESEARCH IN MAGNETIC MATERIALS AND QUANTUM COMPUTING

The U. S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) proposes to negotiate on a sole source basis, under the authority of 41 U.S.C. 253(c)(1), with the University of Colorado (U of C) for basic research in magnetic materials and quantum computing. The research involves work with spin polarized electron spectroscopy, magneto-optic Kerr effect and temperature calibrations. The following tasks will be completed:1) Complete analysis of temperature calibration data for tungsten-rhenium thermocouples and submit final version of paper to Review of Scientific Instruments. 2) Complete analysis of spin polarized electron data from the surface of oxidized gadolinium and submit final version of paper to Physical Review B. 3) Complete analysis of magneto-optic data from in-situ studies of magnetic films and submit final version of paper to Review of Scientific Instruments. 4) Fabricate matrix of zigzag sensor for measurements of magnetic properties as a function of aspect ratio, including coercive field and asteroid plots. 5) Design and fabricate stabilizing bars on zigzag magnetic sensors and measure asteroid plots and magneto-resistance. 6) Design and fabricate shorting bars on zigzag sensors and measure effect on magnetoresistance transfer curves. 7) Consultation on surface science chamber operation and maintenance on request. This procurement is being conducted per FAR Part 13, Simplified Acquisition Procedures (NTE $100K). FAR Clauses in full text are available at http://www.ARNET.gov/far/. Based on the market research conducted, U of C, Physics Department is the only vendor who can perform this analysis. This synopsis is issued for information only. No competitive solicitation is planned. Information submitted in response to this notice will be used solely to determine whether or not use of competitive procedures to fulfill this requirement would be in the Government's best interest and must address qualifications pertinent to this requirement. Any contractors doing business with the Government must now be registered with the Central Contractor Registry. The web site is http://www.ccr.gov/. Agency level protest procedures can be found on web site http://oamweb.osec.doc.gov/conops/reflib/alp1296.htm. Hard copy in full text available from office address and phone number listed in notice. Any questions regarding this notice must be submitted in writing to the attention of Ms. Rima (e-mail preferred). Anticipated award date is July 20, 2004.