A framework for assessing confidence in metabarcoding assays and results

Concepts

• crewe
• research services
• different metabarcoding assays
• metabarcoding assays
• validation framework
• assays
• false positive or false negative results
• assay performance
• an edna metabarcoding
• a given assay

Location

Description

DNA-based methods have the potential to significantly change how we monitor and assess ecosystems. These methods are now being used more widely within Natural England, particularly the detection of ecological communities using environmental DNA (eDNA). This is often conducted by employing metabarcoding assays which target specific species assemblages (e.g. fish, mammals) or broader taxonomic groups (e.g. vertebrates, invertebrates, bacteria). It is difficult for Natural England staff to understand, interpret, and determine confidence in the results of different metabarcoding assays or assess the risk of false positive or false negative results. This project aims to address some of these challenges through the development of an eDNA metabarcoding assay validation framework. This will include: establishing key criteria to enable the classification of metabarcoding assays based on their taxonomic coverage, taxonomic resolution and detection sensitivity for different groups; and assessing the suitability of metabarcoding assays for different sample types and environments. This will enable end-users to determine the recommended scenarios for application of a given assay and improve assay performance with further validation.

CPV Codes

• 73110000 - Research services

Indicators

• Contract is suitable for SMEs.

Other Information

To apply for this opportunity you must submit your quotation meeting the requirements detailed in the Request for Quotation (RFQ) attached. Your response must be sent to monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk by 17:00 on 11th September 2024. If you have any clarification questions linked to this opportunity or the procurement process please submit these via email to monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk. Please note that, unless commercially sensitive, both the question and the response will be circulated to all tenderers. 2024-08-20_Order_Form_NE_Standard_Goods_Services_Terms_and_Conditions.docx LIT63284_Commercial_Response_Basic.docx RFQ 2024-08-21_RFQ_metabarcoding_validation.doc NE200824FACMAR Q&As.docx