1) Can a non-DOE Federal lab apply directly to this laboratory call?

Non-DOE Federal laboratories are not permitted to respond directly to this laboratory call.

2) Can DOE laboratories partner with non-DOE laboratories, industries or universities?
Non-DOE laboratories, industries and universities are excluded from participating as subcontractors unless they are providing general services as opposed to research.   For the purposes of this laboratory call, research may include any effort that leads to patent disclosures or Intellectual Property (IP).  General services may be defined as device measurements, assembly or fabrication or other service not culminating in IP by the performer of the service.  As a guideline, general services should consist of a small percentage of the overall budget.  These definitions are not all inclusive and are provided as examples.  Successful applicants will be responsible for passing funds to any sub-tier contracts.