← Back to search results

ClosedFind a Tender · UK4

Metabarcoding validation framework 2026/2027

Buyer: Natural England →

View official notice ↗Official source

BuyerNatural England
StatusClosed
Deadline17 Aug 2026
Value£41,666
Published11 Aug 2026

What is being bought

DNA-based methods have the potential to significantly change how we monitor and assess ecosystems. Natural England has been exploring the use of these methods for environmental monitoring for several years, delivering a series of reports which focus on the development of DNA-based methods with potential in a particular area. 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). The DNA Team aims to operationalise DNA-based methods and produces guidance for using them in monitoring projects. In order to provide sound recommendations, it is important that we understand the limitations of, and uncertainties with, DNA-based methods. Natural England staff need to be able to understand how DNA-derived data can be used, and the confidence they can have in data derived using different DNA-based methods which have been validated to different stages. Natural England previously commissioned the development of a framework to enable end users to assess confidence in metabarcoding assays and results (Pagaling and others, under review; a copy of the framework can be provided by Natural England upon request by emailing monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk). By using the checklist and levelled scale, end users can appropriately interpret results. It also provides validation and reporting standards for the development of new metabarcoding assays. The framework will enable end-users to determine the recommended scenarios for application of a given assay and improve assay performance with further validation. This project will advance the metabarcoding assay validation framework by expanding upon previous work to conduct a further literature review and meta-analysis, covering more assays being used for different purposes and in different contexts. In addition beta testing of the framework and user guide will be required, as well as the creation and delivery of training materials and course .

Delivery location

UK, GB

Categories

Research and development services and related consultancy services 73000000Environmental training services 80540000

Lot details

Lot 1

No lot description published.

Statusactive
Value£41,666
Contract periodFrom 11 Sept 2026 to 25 Feb 2027
SME suitabilitySuitable for SMEs

What is included

ItemCategoryQuantity
1Research and development services and related consultancy services, Environmental training servicesNot published

Comparable-procurement analytics

Benchmarked against retained Find a Tender procedures with CPV division 73. The category anchor is Research and development services and related consultancy services (73000000); this is a deliberately broad market comparator. The comparison is shown at several levels rather than pretending one company or region is always the best benchmark.

Comparison setProceduresReported bids per procedureNamed award suppliersPrice evidence
Market: CPV division 738683 median · 47.8 average (145 of 868 with a bid count)3.3 average (158 of 868 with named award suppliers)Not published
Same buyer8Not publishedNot publishedNot published
Delivery region: UK3232 median · 128.6 average (47 of 323 with a bid count)5.7 average (55 of 323 with named award suppliers)Not published
Similar published value (0.5×–2×)213Not publishedNot publishedNot published

“Reported bids” is an official aggregate, sometimes reported per lot; it is the closest available competition measure. “Named award suppliers” are winners, not all applicants.

Price-outcome signal

Not enough comparable procedures currently publish both a GBP tender value and a usable lowest-valid-bid value to calculate a responsible price-reduction benchmark. Tenderline deliberately does not infer a saving from named award suppliers or from missing award values.

Procurement strategy & market signals

Framework agreementNot published
Dynamic purchasing systemNot published
Competitive procurementNot published
Recurring requirementNot published
Procurement method rationaleNot published
Rationale classificationsNot published
Special regimeNot published
Covered byNot published
Submission policynotAllowed
Selection criteriaNot published
Risk detailsNot published

Planning & early market engagement

BudgetNot published
No-engagement rationaleNot published
Planning documents0
Planning milestones0

No planning milestones published.

Related procurements

No linked framework, prior procurement or reprocurement published.

Documents & submission route

Source data inventory

Diagnostic view. “Not published” means this current release does not provide a value.

OCIDocds-h6vhtk-06d396
Latest release ID076158-2026
Latest release timestampTue Aug 11 2026 10:54:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
Sourcefind-a-tender
Official notice URLhttps://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/076158-2026
Tender statusactive
Procurement methodopen
Procurement method detailsBelow threshold - open competition
Main procurement categoryservices
Above thresholdNo
Legal basis2023/54
Tender period: startNot published
Tender period: end2026-08-17T09:00:00+01:00
Expression of interest deadlineNot published
Enquiry deadline2026-08-10T14:00:00+01:00
Award period: startNot published
Award period: endNot published
Submission method detailsTo 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 9:00 on 17/8/26 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.
Submission languagesNot published
Electronic catalogue policyNot published
Total tender value£41,666
Tender lots in source1
Tender items in source1
Tender documents in source5
Awards in latest release0
Contracts in latest release0
Parties in latest release1

Notice history

DateEventReference
11 Aug 2026tenderUpdate076158-2026
6 Aug 2026tenderUpdate074894-2026
4 Aug 2026tenderUpdate073810-2026
30 Jul 2026tenderUpdate072233-2026
29 Jul 2026tenderUpdate071753-2026
27 Jul 2026tenderUpdate070826-2026
24 Jul 2026tender070437-2026

All source data

Unmodified official OCDS data retained by Tenderline for this procurement process.

Complete current OCDS release JSON
{
  "id": "076158-2026",
  "tag": [
    "tenderUpdate"
  ],
  "date": "2026-08-11T11:54:32+01:00",
  "ocid": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
  "buyer": {
    "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
    "name": "Natural England"
  },
  "tender": {
    "id": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
    "lots": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "value": {
          "amount": 41666,
          "currency": "GBP",
          "amountGross": 50000
        },
        "status": "active",
        "suitability": {
          "sme": true
        },
        "awardCriteria": {
          "description": "Full details are available in the RFQ"
        },
        "contractPeriod": {
          "endDate": "2027-02-25T23:59:59Z",
          "startDate": "2026-09-11T00:00:00+01:00"
        }
      }
    ],
    "items": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "relatedLot": "1",
        "deliveryAddresses": [
          {
            "region": "UK",
            "country": "GB",
            "countryName": "United Kingdom"
          }
        ],
        "additionalClassifications": [
          {
            "id": "73000000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Research and development services and related consultancy services"
          },
          {
            "id": "80540000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Environmental training services"
          }
        ]
      }
    ],
    "title": "Metabarcoding validation framework 2026/2027",
    "value": {
      "amount": 41666,
      "currency": "GBP",
      "amountGross": 50000
    },
    "status": "active",
    "documents": [
      {
        "id": "A-19673",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19673",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Commercial Response Template",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19705",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19705",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Order form",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19853",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19853",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "RFQ",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-20566",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-20566",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Clarification to bidders questions",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "076158-2026",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/076158-2026",
        "format": "text/html",
        "noticeType": "UK4",
        "description": "Tender notice on Find a Tender",
        "documentType": "tenderNotice",
        "datePublished": "2026-08-11T11:54:32+01:00"
      }
    ],
    "amendments": [
      {
        "id": "076158-2026",
        "description": "Clarification to bidders questions updated."
      }
    ],
    "legalBasis": {
      "id": "2023/54",
      "uri": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/contents",
      "scheme": "UKPGA"
    },
    "description": "DNA-based methods have the potential to significantly change how we monitor and assess ecosystems. Natural England has been exploring the use of these methods for environmental monitoring for several years, delivering a series of reports which focus on the development of DNA-based methods with potential in a particular area. 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).\nThe DNA Team aims to operationalise DNA-based methods and produces guidance for using them in monitoring projects. In order to provide sound recommendations, it is important that we understand the limitations of, and uncertainties with, DNA-based methods. Natural England staff need to be able to understand how DNA-derived data can be used, and the confidence they can have in data derived using different DNA-based methods which have been validated to different stages.\nNatural England previously commissioned the development of a framework to enable end users to assess confidence in metabarcoding assays and results (Pagaling and others, under review; a copy of the framework can be provided by Natural England upon request by emailing monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk). By using the checklist and levelled scale, end users can appropriately interpret results. It also provides validation and reporting standards for the development of new metabarcoding assays. The framework will enable end-users to determine the recommended scenarios for application of a given assay and improve assay performance with further validation.\nThis project will advance the metabarcoding assay validation framework by expanding upon previous work to conduct a further literature review and meta-analysis, covering more assays being used for different purposes and in different contexts. In addition beta testing of the framework and user guide will be required, as well as the creation and delivery of training materials and course .",
    "tenderPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-17T09:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "enquiryPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-10T14:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "aboveThreshold": false,
    "submissionTerms": {
      "electronicSubmissionPolicy": "notAllowed"
    },
    "procurementMethod": "open",
    "mainProcurementCategory": "services",
    "submissionMethodDetails": "To apply for this opportunity you must submit your quotation meeting the requirements detailed in the Request for Quotation (RFQ) attached.\nYour response must be sent to monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk by 9:00 on 17/8/26\nIf 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.",
    "procurementMethodDetails": "Below threshold - open competition"
  },
  "parties": [
    {
      "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
      "name": "Natural England",
      "roles": [
        "buyer"
      ],
      "address": {
        "region": "UKI32",
        "country": "GB",
        "locality": "London",
        "postalCode": "SW1P 4DF",
        "countryName": "United Kingdom",
        "streetAddress": "Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street"
      },
      "details": {
        "classifications": [
          {
            "id": "publicAuthorityCentralGovernment",
            "scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE",
            "description": "Public authority - central government"
          }
        ]
      },
      "identifier": {
        "id": "PJDG-6588-XDMM",
        "scheme": "GB-PPON"
      },
      "contactPoint": {
        "email": "monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk"
      }
    }
  ],
  "language": "en",
  "initiationType": "tender"
}
Complete JSON history (7 releases)
11 Aug 2026 · 076158-2026 · tenderUpdate
{
  "id": "076158-2026",
  "tag": [
    "tenderUpdate"
  ],
  "date": "2026-08-11T11:54:32+01:00",
  "ocid": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
  "buyer": {
    "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
    "name": "Natural England"
  },
  "tender": {
    "id": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
    "lots": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "value": {
          "amount": 41666,
          "currency": "GBP",
          "amountGross": 50000
        },
        "status": "active",
        "suitability": {
          "sme": true
        },
        "awardCriteria": {
          "description": "Full details are available in the RFQ"
        },
        "contractPeriod": {
          "endDate": "2027-02-25T23:59:59Z",
          "startDate": "2026-09-11T00:00:00+01:00"
        }
      }
    ],
    "items": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "relatedLot": "1",
        "deliveryAddresses": [
          {
            "region": "UK",
            "country": "GB",
            "countryName": "United Kingdom"
          }
        ],
        "additionalClassifications": [
          {
            "id": "73000000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Research and development services and related consultancy services"
          },
          {
            "id": "80540000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Environmental training services"
          }
        ]
      }
    ],
    "title": "Metabarcoding validation framework 2026/2027",
    "value": {
      "amount": 41666,
      "currency": "GBP",
      "amountGross": 50000
    },
    "status": "active",
    "documents": [
      {
        "id": "A-19673",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19673",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Commercial Response Template",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19705",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19705",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Order form",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19853",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19853",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "RFQ",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-20566",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-20566",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Clarification to bidders questions",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "076158-2026",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/076158-2026",
        "format": "text/html",
        "noticeType": "UK4",
        "description": "Tender notice on Find a Tender",
        "documentType": "tenderNotice",
        "datePublished": "2026-08-11T11:54:32+01:00"
      }
    ],
    "amendments": [
      {
        "id": "076158-2026",
        "description": "Clarification to bidders questions updated."
      }
    ],
    "legalBasis": {
      "id": "2023/54",
      "uri": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/contents",
      "scheme": "UKPGA"
    },
    "description": "DNA-based methods have the potential to significantly change how we monitor and assess ecosystems. Natural England has been exploring the use of these methods for environmental monitoring for several years, delivering a series of reports which focus on the development of DNA-based methods with potential in a particular area. 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).\nThe DNA Team aims to operationalise DNA-based methods and produces guidance for using them in monitoring projects. In order to provide sound recommendations, it is important that we understand the limitations of, and uncertainties with, DNA-based methods. Natural England staff need to be able to understand how DNA-derived data can be used, and the confidence they can have in data derived using different DNA-based methods which have been validated to different stages.\nNatural England previously commissioned the development of a framework to enable end users to assess confidence in metabarcoding assays and results (Pagaling and others, under review; a copy of the framework can be provided by Natural England upon request by emailing monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk). By using the checklist and levelled scale, end users can appropriately interpret results. It also provides validation and reporting standards for the development of new metabarcoding assays. The framework will enable end-users to determine the recommended scenarios for application of a given assay and improve assay performance with further validation.\nThis project will advance the metabarcoding assay validation framework by expanding upon previous work to conduct a further literature review and meta-analysis, covering more assays being used for different purposes and in different contexts. In addition beta testing of the framework and user guide will be required, as well as the creation and delivery of training materials and course .",
    "tenderPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-17T09:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "enquiryPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-10T14:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "aboveThreshold": false,
    "submissionTerms": {
      "electronicSubmissionPolicy": "notAllowed"
    },
    "procurementMethod": "open",
    "mainProcurementCategory": "services",
    "submissionMethodDetails": "To apply for this opportunity you must submit your quotation meeting the requirements detailed in the Request for Quotation (RFQ) attached.\nYour response must be sent to monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk by 9:00 on 17/8/26\nIf 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.",
    "procurementMethodDetails": "Below threshold - open competition"
  },
  "parties": [
    {
      "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
      "name": "Natural England",
      "roles": [
        "buyer"
      ],
      "address": {
        "region": "UKI32",
        "country": "GB",
        "locality": "London",
        "postalCode": "SW1P 4DF",
        "countryName": "United Kingdom",
        "streetAddress": "Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street"
      },
      "details": {
        "classifications": [
          {
            "id": "publicAuthorityCentralGovernment",
            "scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE",
            "description": "Public authority - central government"
          }
        ]
      },
      "identifier": {
        "id": "PJDG-6588-XDMM",
        "scheme": "GB-PPON"
      },
      "contactPoint": {
        "email": "monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk"
      }
    }
  ],
  "language": "en",
  "initiationType": "tender"
}
6 Aug 2026 · 074894-2026 · tenderUpdate
{
  "id": "074894-2026",
  "tag": [
    "tenderUpdate"
  ],
  "date": "2026-08-06T15:42:57+01:00",
  "ocid": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
  "buyer": {
    "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
    "name": "Natural England"
  },
  "tender": {
    "id": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
    "lots": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "value": {
          "amount": 41666,
          "currency": "GBP",
          "amountGross": 50000
        },
        "status": "active",
        "suitability": {
          "sme": true
        },
        "awardCriteria": {
          "description": "Full details are available in the RFQ"
        },
        "contractPeriod": {
          "endDate": "2027-02-25T23:59:59Z",
          "startDate": "2026-09-11T00:00:00+01:00"
        }
      }
    ],
    "items": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "relatedLot": "1",
        "deliveryAddresses": [
          {
            "region": "UK",
            "country": "GB",
            "countryName": "United Kingdom"
          }
        ],
        "additionalClassifications": [
          {
            "id": "73000000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Research and development services and related consultancy services"
          },
          {
            "id": "80540000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Environmental training services"
          }
        ]
      }
    ],
    "title": "Metabarcoding validation framework 2026/2027",
    "value": {
      "amount": 41666,
      "currency": "GBP",
      "amountGross": 50000
    },
    "status": "active",
    "documents": [
      {
        "id": "A-19673",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19673",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Commercial Response Template",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19705",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19705",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Order form",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19853",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19853",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "RFQ",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-20315",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-20315",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Clarification to bidders questions",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "074894-2026",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/074894-2026",
        "format": "text/html",
        "noticeType": "UK4",
        "description": "Tender notice on Find a Tender",
        "documentType": "tenderNotice",
        "datePublished": "2026-08-06T15:42:57+01:00"
      }
    ],
    "amendments": [
      {
        "id": "074894-2026",
        "description": "Clarification to bidders questions updated 06/08/26."
      }
    ],
    "legalBasis": {
      "id": "2023/54",
      "uri": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/contents",
      "scheme": "UKPGA"
    },
    "description": "DNA-based methods have the potential to significantly change how we monitor and assess ecosystems. Natural England has been exploring the use of these methods for environmental monitoring for several years, delivering a series of reports which focus on the development of DNA-based methods with potential in a particular area. 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).\nThe DNA Team aims to operationalise DNA-based methods and produces guidance for using them in monitoring projects. In order to provide sound recommendations, it is important that we understand the limitations of, and uncertainties with, DNA-based methods. Natural England staff need to be able to understand how DNA-derived data can be used, and the confidence they can have in data derived using different DNA-based methods which have been validated to different stages.\nNatural England previously commissioned the development of a framework to enable end users to assess confidence in metabarcoding assays and results (Pagaling and others, under review; a copy of the framework can be provided by Natural England upon request by emailing monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk). By using the checklist and levelled scale, end users can appropriately interpret results. It also provides validation and reporting standards for the development of new metabarcoding assays. The framework will enable end-users to determine the recommended scenarios for application of a given assay and improve assay performance with further validation.\nThis project will advance the metabarcoding assay validation framework by expanding upon previous work to conduct a further literature review and meta-analysis, covering more assays being used for different purposes and in different contexts. In addition beta testing of the framework and user guide will be required, as well as the creation and delivery of training materials and course .",
    "tenderPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-17T09:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "enquiryPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-10T14:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "aboveThreshold": false,
    "submissionTerms": {
      "electronicSubmissionPolicy": "notAllowed"
    },
    "procurementMethod": "open",
    "mainProcurementCategory": "services",
    "submissionMethodDetails": "To apply for this opportunity you must submit your quotation meeting the requirements detailed in the Request for Quotation (RFQ) attached.\nYour response must be sent to monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk by 9:00 on 17/8/26\nIf 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.",
    "procurementMethodDetails": "Below threshold - open competition"
  },
  "parties": [
    {
      "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
      "name": "Natural England",
      "roles": [
        "buyer"
      ],
      "address": {
        "region": "UKI32",
        "country": "GB",
        "locality": "London",
        "postalCode": "SW1P 4DF",
        "countryName": "United Kingdom",
        "streetAddress": "Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street"
      },
      "details": {
        "classifications": [
          {
            "id": "publicAuthorityCentralGovernment",
            "scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE",
            "description": "Public authority - central government"
          }
        ]
      },
      "identifier": {
        "id": "PJDG-6588-XDMM",
        "scheme": "GB-PPON"
      },
      "contactPoint": {
        "email": "monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk"
      }
    }
  ],
  "language": "en",
  "initiationType": "tender"
}
4 Aug 2026 · 073810-2026 · tenderUpdate
{
  "id": "073810-2026",
  "tag": [
    "tenderUpdate"
  ],
  "date": "2026-08-04T15:28:20+01:00",
  "ocid": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
  "buyer": {
    "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
    "name": "Natural England"
  },
  "tender": {
    "id": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
    "lots": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "value": {
          "amount": 41666,
          "currency": "GBP",
          "amountGross": 50000
        },
        "status": "active",
        "suitability": {
          "sme": true
        },
        "awardCriteria": {
          "description": "Full details are available in the RFQ"
        },
        "contractPeriod": {
          "endDate": "2027-02-25T23:59:59Z",
          "startDate": "2026-09-11T00:00:00+01:00"
        }
      }
    ],
    "items": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "relatedLot": "1",
        "deliveryAddresses": [
          {
            "region": "UK",
            "country": "GB",
            "countryName": "United Kingdom"
          }
        ],
        "additionalClassifications": [
          {
            "id": "73000000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Research and development services and related consultancy services"
          },
          {
            "id": "80540000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Environmental training services"
          }
        ]
      }
    ],
    "title": "Metabarcoding validation framework 2026/2027",
    "value": {
      "amount": 41666,
      "currency": "GBP",
      "amountGross": 50000
    },
    "status": "active",
    "documents": [
      {
        "id": "A-19673",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19673",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Commercial Response Template",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19705",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19705",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Order form",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19853",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19853",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "RFQ",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-20125",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-20125",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Clarification to bidders questions",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "073810-2026",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/073810-2026",
        "format": "text/html",
        "noticeType": "UK4",
        "description": "Tender notice on Find a Tender",
        "documentType": "tenderNotice",
        "datePublished": "2026-08-04T15:28:20+01:00"
      }
    ],
    "amendments": [
      {
        "id": "073810-2026",
        "description": "Clarification to bidders update"
      }
    ],
    "legalBasis": {
      "id": "2023/54",
      "uri": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/contents",
      "scheme": "UKPGA"
    },
    "description": "DNA-based methods have the potential to significantly change how we monitor and assess ecosystems. Natural England has been exploring the use of these methods for environmental monitoring for several years, delivering a series of reports which focus on the development of DNA-based methods with potential in a particular area. 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).\nThe DNA Team aims to operationalise DNA-based methods and produces guidance for using them in monitoring projects. In order to provide sound recommendations, it is important that we understand the limitations of, and uncertainties with, DNA-based methods. Natural England staff need to be able to understand how DNA-derived data can be used, and the confidence they can have in data derived using different DNA-based methods which have been validated to different stages.\nNatural England previously commissioned the development of a framework to enable end users to assess confidence in metabarcoding assays and results (Pagaling and others, under review; a copy of the framework can be provided by Natural England upon request by emailing monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk). By using the checklist and levelled scale, end users can appropriately interpret results. It also provides validation and reporting standards for the development of new metabarcoding assays. The framework will enable end-users to determine the recommended scenarios for application of a given assay and improve assay performance with further validation.\nThis project will advance the metabarcoding assay validation framework by expanding upon previous work to conduct a further literature review and meta-analysis, covering more assays being used for different purposes and in different contexts. In addition beta testing of the framework and user guide will be required, as well as the creation and delivery of training materials and course .",
    "tenderPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-17T09:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "enquiryPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-10T14:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "aboveThreshold": false,
    "submissionTerms": {
      "electronicSubmissionPolicy": "notAllowed"
    },
    "procurementMethod": "open",
    "mainProcurementCategory": "services",
    "submissionMethodDetails": "To apply for this opportunity you must submit your quotation meeting the requirements detailed in the Request for Quotation (RFQ) attached.\nYour response must be sent to monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk by 9:00 on 17/8/26\nIf 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.",
    "procurementMethodDetails": "Below threshold - open competition"
  },
  "parties": [
    {
      "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
      "name": "Natural England",
      "roles": [
        "buyer"
      ],
      "address": {
        "region": "UKI32",
        "country": "GB",
        "locality": "London",
        "postalCode": "SW1P 4DF",
        "countryName": "United Kingdom",
        "streetAddress": "Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street"
      },
      "details": {
        "classifications": [
          {
            "id": "publicAuthorityCentralGovernment",
            "scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE",
            "description": "Public authority - central government"
          }
        ]
      },
      "identifier": {
        "id": "PJDG-6588-XDMM",
        "scheme": "GB-PPON"
      },
      "contactPoint": {
        "email": "monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk"
      }
    }
  ],
  "language": "en",
  "initiationType": "tender"
}
30 Jul 2026 · 072233-2026 · tenderUpdate
{
  "id": "072233-2026",
  "tag": [
    "tenderUpdate"
  ],
  "date": "2026-07-30T14:20:11+01:00",
  "ocid": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
  "buyer": {
    "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
    "name": "Natural England"
  },
  "tender": {
    "id": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
    "lots": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "value": {
          "amount": 41666,
          "currency": "GBP",
          "amountGross": 50000
        },
        "status": "active",
        "suitability": {
          "sme": true
        },
        "awardCriteria": {
          "description": "Full details are available in the RFQ"
        },
        "contractPeriod": {
          "endDate": "2027-02-25T23:59:59Z",
          "startDate": "2026-09-11T00:00:00+01:00"
        }
      }
    ],
    "items": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "relatedLot": "1",
        "deliveryAddresses": [
          {
            "region": "UK",
            "country": "GB",
            "countryName": "United Kingdom"
          }
        ],
        "additionalClassifications": [
          {
            "id": "73000000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Research and development services and related consultancy services"
          },
          {
            "id": "80540000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Environmental training services"
          }
        ]
      }
    ],
    "title": "Metabarcoding validation framework 2026/2027",
    "value": {
      "amount": 41666,
      "currency": "GBP",
      "amountGross": 50000
    },
    "status": "active",
    "documents": [
      {
        "id": "A-19673",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19673",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Commercial Response Template",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19705",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19705",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Order form",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19853",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19853",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "RFQ",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19917",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19917",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Clarification to bidders questions",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "072233-2026",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/072233-2026",
        "format": "text/html",
        "noticeType": "UK4",
        "description": "Tender notice on Find a Tender",
        "documentType": "tenderNotice",
        "datePublished": "2026-07-30T14:20:11+01:00"
      }
    ],
    "amendments": [
      {
        "id": "072233-2026",
        "description": "Clarification to bidders questions added 30/07/26."
      }
    ],
    "legalBasis": {
      "id": "2023/54",
      "uri": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/contents",
      "scheme": "UKPGA"
    },
    "description": "DNA-based methods have the potential to significantly change how we monitor and assess ecosystems. Natural England has been exploring the use of these methods for environmental monitoring for several years, delivering a series of reports which focus on the development of DNA-based methods with potential in a particular area. 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).\nThe DNA Team aims to operationalise DNA-based methods and produces guidance for using them in monitoring projects. In order to provide sound recommendations, it is important that we understand the limitations of, and uncertainties with, DNA-based methods. Natural England staff need to be able to understand how DNA-derived data can be used, and the confidence they can have in data derived using different DNA-based methods which have been validated to different stages.\nNatural England previously commissioned the development of a framework to enable end users to assess confidence in metabarcoding assays and results (Pagaling and others, under review; a copy of the framework can be provided by Natural England upon request by emailing monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk). By using the checklist and levelled scale, end users can appropriately interpret results. It also provides validation and reporting standards for the development of new metabarcoding assays. The framework will enable end-users to determine the recommended scenarios for application of a given assay and improve assay performance with further validation.\nThis project will advance the metabarcoding assay validation framework by expanding upon previous work to conduct a further literature review and meta-analysis, covering more assays being used for different purposes and in different contexts. In addition beta testing of the framework and user guide will be required, as well as the creation and delivery of training materials and course .",
    "tenderPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-17T09:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "enquiryPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-10T14:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "aboveThreshold": false,
    "submissionTerms": {
      "electronicSubmissionPolicy": "notAllowed"
    },
    "procurementMethod": "open",
    "mainProcurementCategory": "services",
    "submissionMethodDetails": "To apply for this opportunity you must submit your quotation meeting the requirements detailed in the Request for Quotation (RFQ) attached.\nYour response must be sent to monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk by 9:00 on 17/8/26\nIf 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.",
    "procurementMethodDetails": "Below threshold - open competition"
  },
  "parties": [
    {
      "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
      "name": "Natural England",
      "roles": [
        "buyer"
      ],
      "address": {
        "region": "UKI32",
        "country": "GB",
        "locality": "London",
        "postalCode": "SW1P 4DF",
        "countryName": "United Kingdom",
        "streetAddress": "Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street"
      },
      "details": {
        "classifications": [
          {
            "id": "publicAuthorityCentralGovernment",
            "scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE",
            "description": "Public authority - central government"
          }
        ]
      },
      "identifier": {
        "id": "PJDG-6588-XDMM",
        "scheme": "GB-PPON"
      },
      "contactPoint": {
        "email": "monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk"
      }
    }
  ],
  "language": "en",
  "initiationType": "tender"
}
29 Jul 2026 · 071753-2026 · tenderUpdate
{
  "id": "071753-2026",
  "tag": [
    "tenderUpdate"
  ],
  "date": "2026-07-29T14:24:52+01:00",
  "ocid": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
  "buyer": {
    "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
    "name": "Natural England"
  },
  "tender": {
    "id": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
    "lots": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "value": {
          "amount": 41666,
          "currency": "GBP",
          "amountGross": 50000
        },
        "status": "active",
        "suitability": {
          "sme": true
        },
        "awardCriteria": {
          "description": "Full details are available in the RFQ"
        },
        "contractPeriod": {
          "endDate": "2027-02-25T23:59:59Z",
          "startDate": "2026-09-11T00:00:00+01:00"
        }
      }
    ],
    "items": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "relatedLot": "1",
        "deliveryAddresses": [
          {
            "region": "UK",
            "country": "GB",
            "countryName": "United Kingdom"
          }
        ],
        "additionalClassifications": [
          {
            "id": "73000000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Research and development services and related consultancy services"
          },
          {
            "id": "80540000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Environmental training services"
          }
        ]
      }
    ],
    "title": "Metabarcoding validation framework 2026/2027",
    "value": {
      "amount": 41666,
      "currency": "GBP",
      "amountGross": 50000
    },
    "status": "active",
    "documents": [
      {
        "id": "A-19673",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19673",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Commercial Response Template",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19705",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19705",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Order form",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19853",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19853",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "RFQ",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "071753-2026",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/071753-2026",
        "format": "text/html",
        "noticeType": "UK4",
        "description": "Tender notice on Find a Tender",
        "documentType": "tenderNotice",
        "datePublished": "2026-07-29T14:24:52+01:00"
      }
    ],
    "amendments": [
      {
        "id": "071753-2026",
        "description": "Updated RFQ uploaded"
      }
    ],
    "legalBasis": {
      "id": "2023/54",
      "uri": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/contents",
      "scheme": "UKPGA"
    },
    "description": "DNA-based methods have the potential to significantly change how we monitor and assess ecosystems. Natural England has been exploring the use of these methods for environmental monitoring for several years, delivering a series of reports which focus on the development of DNA-based methods with potential in a particular area. 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).\nThe DNA Team aims to operationalise DNA-based methods and produces guidance for using them in monitoring projects. In order to provide sound recommendations, it is important that we understand the limitations of, and uncertainties with, DNA-based methods. Natural England staff need to be able to understand how DNA-derived data can be used, and the confidence they can have in data derived using different DNA-based methods which have been validated to different stages.\nNatural England previously commissioned the development of a framework to enable end users to assess confidence in metabarcoding assays and results (Pagaling and others, under review; a copy of the framework can be provided by Natural England upon request by emailing monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk). By using the checklist and levelled scale, end users can appropriately interpret results. It also provides validation and reporting standards for the development of new metabarcoding assays. The framework will enable end-users to determine the recommended scenarios for application of a given assay and improve assay performance with further validation.\nThis project will advance the metabarcoding assay validation framework by expanding upon previous work to conduct a further literature review and meta-analysis, covering more assays being used for different purposes and in different contexts. In addition beta testing of the framework and user guide will be required, as well as the creation and delivery of training materials and course .",
    "tenderPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-17T09:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "enquiryPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-10T14:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "aboveThreshold": false,
    "submissionTerms": {
      "electronicSubmissionPolicy": "notAllowed"
    },
    "procurementMethod": "open",
    "mainProcurementCategory": "services",
    "submissionMethodDetails": "To apply for this opportunity you must submit your quotation meeting the requirements detailed in the Request for Quotation (RFQ) attached.\nYour response must be sent to monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk by 9:00 on 17/8/26\nIf 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.",
    "procurementMethodDetails": "Below threshold - open competition"
  },
  "parties": [
    {
      "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
      "name": "Natural England",
      "roles": [
        "buyer"
      ],
      "address": {
        "region": "UKI32",
        "country": "GB",
        "locality": "London",
        "postalCode": "SW1P 4DF",
        "countryName": "United Kingdom",
        "streetAddress": "Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street"
      },
      "details": {
        "classifications": [
          {
            "id": "publicAuthorityCentralGovernment",
            "scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE",
            "description": "Public authority - central government"
          }
        ]
      },
      "identifier": {
        "id": "PJDG-6588-XDMM",
        "scheme": "GB-PPON"
      },
      "contactPoint": {
        "email": "monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk"
      }
    }
  ],
  "language": "en",
  "initiationType": "tender"
}
27 Jul 2026 · 070826-2026 · tenderUpdate
{
  "id": "070826-2026",
  "tag": [
    "tenderUpdate"
  ],
  "date": "2026-07-27T14:26:53+01:00",
  "ocid": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
  "buyer": {
    "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
    "name": "Natural England"
  },
  "tender": {
    "id": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
    "lots": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "value": {
          "amount": 41666,
          "currency": "GBP",
          "amountGross": 50000
        },
        "status": "active",
        "suitability": {
          "sme": true
        },
        "awardCriteria": {
          "description": "Full details are available in the RFQ"
        },
        "contractPeriod": {
          "endDate": "2027-02-25T23:59:59Z",
          "startDate": "2026-09-11T00:00:00+01:00"
        }
      }
    ],
    "items": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "relatedLot": "1",
        "deliveryAddresses": [
          {
            "region": "UK",
            "country": "GB",
            "countryName": "United Kingdom"
          }
        ],
        "additionalClassifications": [
          {
            "id": "73000000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Research and development services and related consultancy services"
          },
          {
            "id": "80540000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Environmental training services"
          }
        ]
      }
    ],
    "title": "Metabarcoding validation framework 2026/2027",
    "value": {
      "amount": 41666,
      "currency": "GBP",
      "amountGross": 50000
    },
    "status": "active",
    "documents": [
      {
        "id": "A-19673",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19673",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Commercial Response Template",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19705",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19705",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Order form",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19734",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19734",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "RFQ",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "070826-2026",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/070826-2026",
        "format": "text/html",
        "noticeType": "UK4",
        "description": "Tender notice on Find a Tender",
        "documentType": "tenderNotice",
        "datePublished": "2026-07-27T14:26:53+01:00"
      }
    ],
    "legalBasis": {
      "id": "2023/54",
      "uri": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/contents",
      "scheme": "UKPGA"
    },
    "description": "DNA-based methods have the potential to significantly change how we monitor and assess ecosystems. Natural England has been exploring the use of these methods for environmental monitoring for several years, delivering a series of reports which focus on the development of DNA-based methods with potential in a particular area. 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).\nThe DNA Team aims to operationalise DNA-based methods and produces guidance for using them in monitoring projects. In order to provide sound recommendations, it is important that we understand the limitations of, and uncertainties with, DNA-based methods. Natural England staff need to be able to understand how DNA-derived data can be used, and the confidence they can have in data derived using different DNA-based methods which have been validated to different stages.\nNatural England previously commissioned the development of a framework to enable end users to assess confidence in metabarcoding assays and results (Pagaling and others, under review; a copy of the framework can be provided by Natural England upon request by emailing monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk). By using the checklist and levelled scale, end users can appropriately interpret results. It also provides validation and reporting standards for the development of new metabarcoding assays. The framework will enable end-users to determine the recommended scenarios for application of a given assay and improve assay performance with further validation.\nThis project will advance the metabarcoding assay validation framework by expanding upon previous work to conduct a further literature review and meta-analysis, covering more assays being used for different purposes and in different contexts. In addition beta testing of the framework and user guide will be required, as well as the creation and delivery of training materials and course .",
    "tenderPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-17T09:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "enquiryPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-10T14:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "aboveThreshold": false,
    "submissionTerms": {
      "electronicSubmissionPolicy": "notAllowed"
    },
    "procurementMethod": "open",
    "mainProcurementCategory": "services",
    "submissionMethodDetails": "To apply for this opportunity you must submit your quotation meeting the requirements detailed in the Request for Quotation (RFQ) attached.\nYour response must be sent to monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk by 9:00 on 17/8/26\nIf 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.",
    "procurementMethodDetails": "Below threshold - open competition"
  },
  "parties": [
    {
      "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
      "name": "Natural England",
      "roles": [
        "buyer"
      ],
      "address": {
        "region": "UKI32",
        "country": "GB",
        "locality": "London",
        "postalCode": "SW1P 4DF",
        "countryName": "United Kingdom",
        "streetAddress": "Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street"
      },
      "details": {
        "classifications": [
          {
            "id": "publicAuthorityCentralGovernment",
            "scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE",
            "description": "Public authority - central government"
          }
        ]
      },
      "identifier": {
        "id": "PJDG-6588-XDMM",
        "scheme": "GB-PPON"
      },
      "contactPoint": {
        "email": "monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk"
      }
    }
  ],
  "language": "en",
  "initiationType": "tender"
}
24 Jul 2026 · 070437-2026 · tender
{
  "id": "070437-2026",
  "tag": [
    "tender"
  ],
  "date": "2026-07-24T15:51:20+01:00",
  "ocid": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
  "buyer": {
    "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
    "name": "Natural England"
  },
  "tender": {
    "id": "ocds-h6vhtk-06d396",
    "lots": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "value": {
          "amount": 41666,
          "currency": "GBP",
          "amountGross": 50000
        },
        "status": "active",
        "suitability": {
          "sme": true
        },
        "awardCriteria": {
          "description": "Full details are available in the RFQ"
        },
        "contractPeriod": {
          "endDate": "2027-02-25T23:59:59Z",
          "startDate": "2026-09-11T00:00:00+01:00"
        }
      }
    ],
    "items": [
      {
        "id": "1",
        "relatedLot": "1",
        "deliveryAddresses": [
          {
            "region": "UK",
            "country": "GB",
            "countryName": "United Kingdom"
          }
        ],
        "additionalClassifications": [
          {
            "id": "73000000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Research and development services and related consultancy services"
          },
          {
            "id": "80540000",
            "scheme": "CPV",
            "description": "Environmental training services"
          }
        ]
      }
    ],
    "title": "Metabarcoding validation framework 2026/2027",
    "value": {
      "amount": 41666,
      "currency": "GBP",
      "amountGross": 50000
    },
    "status": "active",
    "documents": [
      {
        "id": "A-19672",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19672",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "RFQ",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19673",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19673",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Commercial Response Template",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "A-19705",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/Attachment/A-19705",
        "format": "application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document",
        "description": "Order form",
        "documentType": "biddingDocuments"
      },
      {
        "id": "070437-2026",
        "url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/070437-2026",
        "format": "text/html",
        "noticeType": "UK4",
        "description": "Tender notice on Find a Tender",
        "documentType": "tenderNotice",
        "datePublished": "2026-07-24T15:51:20+01:00"
      }
    ],
    "legalBasis": {
      "id": "2023/54",
      "uri": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/contents",
      "scheme": "UKPGA"
    },
    "description": "DNA-based methods have the potential to significantly change how we monitor and assess ecosystems. Natural England has been exploring the use of these methods for environmental monitoring for several years, delivering a series of reports which focus on the development of DNA-based methods with potential in a particular area. 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).\nThe DNA Team aims to operationalise DNA-based methods and produces guidance for using them in monitoring projects. In order to provide sound recommendations, it is important that we understand the limitations of, and uncertainties with, DNA-based methods. Natural England staff need to be able to understand how DNA-derived data can be used, and the confidence they can have in data derived using different DNA-based methods which have been validated to different stages.\nNatural England previously commissioned the development of a framework to enable end users to assess confidence in metabarcoding assays and results (Pagaling and others, under review; a copy of the framework can be provided by Natural England upon request by emailing monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk). By using the checklist and levelled scale, end users can appropriately interpret results. It also provides validation and reporting standards for the development of new metabarcoding assays. The framework will enable end-users to determine the recommended scenarios for application of a given assay and improve assay performance with further validation.\nThis project will advance the metabarcoding assay validation framework by expanding upon previous work to conduct a further literature review and meta-analysis, covering more assays being used for different purposes and in different contexts. In addition beta testing of the framework and user guide will be required, as well as the creation and delivery of training materials and course .",
    "tenderPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-17T09:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "enquiryPeriod": {
      "endDate": "2026-08-10T14:00:00+01:00"
    },
    "aboveThreshold": false,
    "submissionTerms": {
      "electronicSubmissionPolicy": "notAllowed"
    },
    "procurementMethod": "open",
    "mainProcurementCategory": "services",
    "submissionMethodDetails": "To apply for this opportunity you must submit your quotation meeting the requirements detailed in the Request for Quotation (RFQ) attached.\nYour response must be sent to monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk by 9:00 on 17/8/26\nIf 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.",
    "procurementMethodDetails": "Below threshold - open competition"
  },
  "parties": [
    {
      "id": "GB-PPON-PJDG-6588-XDMM",
      "name": "Natural England",
      "roles": [
        "buyer"
      ],
      "address": {
        "region": "UKI32",
        "country": "GB",
        "locality": "London",
        "postalCode": "SW1P 4DF",
        "countryName": "United Kingdom",
        "streetAddress": "Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street"
      },
      "details": {
        "classifications": [
          {
            "id": "publicAuthorityCentralGovernment",
            "scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE",
            "description": "Public authority - central government"
          }
        ]
      },
      "identifier": {
        "id": "PJDG-6588-XDMM",
        "scheme": "GB-PPON"
      },
      "contactPoint": {
        "email": "monitoring.innovation@naturalengland.org.uk"
      }
    }
  ],
  "language": "en",
  "initiationType": "tender"
}