COLUMBUS, Ohio – Battelle has been chosen as one of a select number of companies given the chance to bid on computer software, network, information, modeling and simulation programs for the federal government.

Battelle's selection by the Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) means it will be allowed to bid on up to $2 billion worth of contracts, known as multiple award contracts, over the next five years covering cyber-security, networks, software design and other information-related programs in support of the departments of Defense, Homeland Security and other government agencies.

Battelle's selection as one of nine companies is part of a government winnowing process. Companies are not selected unless the government believes they can actually handle the work. Then, they are allowed to bid on task order contracts on a case-by-base basis.

"This is a really important step for Battelle because Cybersecurity and network information management is an important and growing area for our clients," said Brian Schultz, a senior program manager at Battelle. "This will be a great way to apply our technical know-how in information systems and advanced analytics to help solve our customers' challenges."

Schultz said the first contracts under the program will be open for bidding in about a month.

Battelle already operates the Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear Information Analysis Center for DTIC at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland.

As the world's largest, independent research and development organization, Battelle provides innovative solutions to the world's most pressing needs through its four global businesses: Laboratory Management, National Security, Energy Technology, and Health and Life Sciences. It advances scientific discovery and application by conducting $5.6 billion in global R&D annually through contract research, laboratory management and technology commercialization. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Battelle oversees 20,400 employees in more than 130 locations worldwide, including seven national laboratories which Battelle manages or co-manages for the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and one international nuclear laboratory in the United Kingdom.