6640--Live Cell Imaging and Analysis System
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), specifically the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison, WI, is conducting market research through a Sources Sought Notice. The VA seeks to identify qualified sources capable of providing a benchtop, plate-based live cell imaging and analysis system to enhance biomedical research capabilities. This is not a solicitation, and no contract will be awarded from this notice. Responses are due by April 15, 2026, at 17:00 CST.
Purpose & Background
The Research Service at the William S. Middleton VAMC requires a modern live cell imaging and analysis system to support ongoing and future biomedical research, including long-term cell culture studies, phenotypic characterization, and drug response assays. Current imaging capabilities are limited, hindering continuous, automated live cell monitoring under physiologically controlled conditions. The acquisition of this system will significantly enhance research infrastructure and improve data quality.
Scope of Requirement
The requirement is for one (1) complete live cell imaging and analysis system, encompassing:
- All necessary hardware and optical components.
- System control and analysis software.
- Accessories, environmental modules, and required installation items.
- Delivery and setup at the Madison VAMC.
- Operational qualification and validation.
- On-site user training and initial support.
Minimum Salient Characteristics
Vendors must demonstrate how their system meets or exceeds the following:
- Benchtop, plate-based system for long-term culture and imaging of adherent and suspension cells.
- Continuous, non-invasive monitoring in a controlled environment (temperature, CO2, humidity).
- Accommodation for standard SBS microplates (6, 12, 24, 48, and 96 well).
- Label-free imaging (e.g., phase contrast).
- Fluorescence imaging with at least two channels plus transmitted light.
- Automated, time-lapse image acquisition across multiple wells/plates.
- Integrated software for automated analysis (confluence, proliferation, morphology).
- Real-time/near real-time visualization and data export.
- Minimized phototoxicity and photobleaching.
- Unattended operation for multiple days to weeks.
Response Requirements
Interested vendors should submit a Capability Statement (recommended 10 pages or less) addressing:
- Company Information: Legal name, UEI, CAGE, business size, socio-economic status under NAICS 334516, and SAM.gov registration confirmation.
- Technical Response: Detailed, point-by-point explanation of compliance with salient characteristics, supported by product literature.
- Delivery & Installation Capability: Standard lead time, installation, training, warranty, and service options.
- Past Performance: At least two recent installations of similar systems.
- Country of Origin (COO): For BAA/TAA compliance assessment.
- Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) Pricing: Non-binding estimate.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- NAICS: 334516 - Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing
- PSC: 6640 - Laboratory Equipment And Supplies
- Set-Aside: None specified (Market Research)
- Response Due: April 15, 2026, 17:00 CST
- Published Date: April 1, 2026
Submission Details & Contact
Responses must be emailed to Erica.Grimslid@va.gov with the subject line: "Sources Sought – Live Cell Imaging System – [Company Name]". The point of contact is Erica Grimslid, Contracting Officer.
Important Note
This notice is for information and planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or commitment by the VA. No reimbursement will be provided for responses.