Agilent Cytation 9 Cell Imaging Multimode Reader, or equivalent instrument
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 U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR), Division of Genetic and Molecular Toxicology (DGMT) is conducting a Sources Sought / Market Survey to identify small businesses capable of providing an Agilent Cytation 9 Cell Imaging Multimode Reader, or equivalent instrument. This system is required for advanced high-content imaging to support in vitro systems and the development of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs). Capability statements are due by June 22, 2026, 12:00 pm (Central Time).
Scope of Work
The required instrument must provide automated, high-throughput image acquisition and analysis in multi-well plate formats. Key features include:
- Configurable upright and inverted microscopy with multimode microplate reading.
- Compatibility with 6 to 384-well microplates, microscope slides, and counting chambers.
- Multiple imaging modes: fluorescence, brightfield, color brightfield, phase contrast, high contrast brightfield, and optional upright transmitted/reflected imaging.
- Fluorescence, absorbance, and luminescence microplate reading capabilities.
- Integration with automated incubators for live cell imaging workflows.
- Imaging functions: end-point, time lapse, Z-stack, and montage imaging.
- 1.25x to 20x magnification with a 16-bit CMOS wide field of view monochrome camera.
- Autofocus, auto-exposure, and auto-LED intensity adjustments.
- Multimode plate reading functions including optical flexibility, quadruple monochromators, and various detection modes.
- Delivery, installation, and onsite training within 60 days of contract award.
- One (1) year warranty and unlimited free technical support for one year.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Survey (NOT a solicitation)
- Response Date: June 22, 2026, 12:00 pm CT
- Published Date: June 15, 2026
- Trade-in: The government offers a nonfunctional Agilent BioTek Cytation 3 System for trade-in, requiring a minimum 43.1% pricing concession.
- No reimbursement for submission costs.
Submission & Evaluation
Interested contractors must submit capability statements via email to suzanne.martella@fda.hhs.gov, referencing 75F40126SSN135511. Responses should demonstrate regular engagement in selling similar products/services and include:
- Business name, bio, Unique Entity ID (SAM), address, website, size status, and POC information.
- Past performance (last 3 years) and descriptive literature.
- Technical information to confirm requirements are met. Informational pricing is helpful but not required.
Eligibility / Set-Aside
This notice primarily seeks small business sources under NAICS 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing). Other than small business concerns and vendors offering domestic products are also encouraged to respond.
Additional Notes
No RFQ package or solicitation is available. Telephone calls, requests for technical point of contact information, and appointments for presentations will not be accepted. Responses with weblinks will not be opened. Do not include proprietary, classified, confidential, or sensitive information.