Automated Cell Culture System with Integrated Refrigeration
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 National Institutes of Health (NIH), specifically the National Eye Institute (NEI), is conducting a Sources Sought notice (Solicitation Number: 75N98026Q00027) to identify vendors capable of providing an Automated Cell Culture System with Integrated Refrigeration. This market research aims to support the NEI's Unit on Ocular Stem Cells and Translational Research (OSCTR) by minimizing manual intervention and ensuring consistent handling for iPSC-derived adherent cell cultures. Responses are due February 19, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET.
Purpose & Scope
This Sources Sought is for market research (FAR Part 10) to assess the availability of commercial products, determine the most appropriate acquisition strategy (including potential small business set-asides), and identify domestic end products. The NEI requires one (1) automated cell culture system that performs automated media exchange, feeding, sampling, washing, passaging, differentiation/maturation, and harvesting for mammalian adherent cell cultures. The system must be compatible with common lab consumables, have a compact benchtop footprint, sterile liquid handling, integrated refrigeration for at least four reagents, and a 24-hour battery backup. The NESTOR Cell Automation System is referenced for quality and functionality, but equal products meeting all salient characteristics will be considered.
Required Capabilities
Respondents must submit a capability statement (max 10 pages) addressing:
- Product Identification: Manufacturer, model, and respondent's role (manufacturer, distributor, reseller).
- Technical Capability: Point-by-point response to all salient characteristics, noting any deviations.
- Commercial Availability: Product status, estimated delivery lead time, and warranty terms.
- Manufacturing & Origin: Place of manufacture and confirmation of domestic end product status.
- Small Business Information: Business size under NAICS 339112 (Surgical and Medical Instrument Manufacturing, 1,000 employees size standard) and manufacturer size status (if Non-Manufacturer Rule applies).
- Contracting Vehicles: Any applicable GSA Schedule or government-wide contracts.
- Company Information: Name, UEID, address, and points of contact.
Submission Details
- Response Type: Capability Statement (electronic copy in MS Word or Adobe PDF).
- Page Limit: 10 pages.
- Submission Email: deborah.blyveis@hhs.gov
- Response Due: February 19, 2026, at 3:00 PM Eastern Time.
- Contact: Deborah Blyveis, Contract Specialist.
Important Notes
This is not a solicitation for proposals or quotations, and no award will be made. The Government will not pay for response costs. Small businesses are encouraged to respond.