CEFAS25-107 Contract Otolith Microchemistry Analysis of Herring Larvae Samples

Contract for otolith microchemistry analysis via Laser Ablation-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer (LA-ICP-MS) of herring larvae samples.

The contract is based on the requirements and structure of the previous agreement with Cefas, adapted for current needs.

Technical requirements to be met by the supplier:

• Experience on quantitative microchemistry analysis on fish otoliths with Laser Ablation-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer (LA-ICP-MS) for a range of trace elements including relevant use of standards and calculation of detection limits.
• Laboratory capacity and experience operating LA-ICP-MS and RESOlution-SE 193nm with a Laurin Technic S155 two-volume cell.
• Experience on microchemistry data processing and reporting including quality checks with Iolite, and compliance with data protection policy.

Scope of Work - Specification

The supplier will provide LA-ICP-MS microchemistry analysis on fish otoliths samples provided by Cefas with expert contribution by Audrey Geffen for the following requirements:

• Communication with Cefas WP lead and/or PI, participate in technical meetings with experts via TC or in person.
• Deliverable 1: LA-ICP-MS test run of 50 samples of herring larvae otolith in September 2025 (including submission of data files).
• Deliverable 2: LA-ICP-MS analysis of 200 samples of herring larvae otoliths in December 2025 and January 2026 (including submission of data files and QC).
• Deliverable 3: Provide final report to Cefas summarising the results and technical details (including method and data files) by end of February 2026.