Automated Liquid Handling Robot
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), specifically the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM), is conducting a Sources Sought market survey to identify vendors capable of providing an Automated Liquid Handling Robot. This system is crucial for automating bead purification and DNA shearing steps in long-read sequencing library preparation for the National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS) and expanding genomic research. This notice is for information gathering only and is not a solicitation. Responses are due June 10, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET.
Scope of Work
The required Automated Robotic Liquid Handling System must automate DNA shearing (~10,000 bp) and bead cleanup for up to 96 samples. Key requirements include compatibility with PacBio Sequel IIe sequencing workflows, support for user-defined workflows (minimum two additional), and a pipetting range of 1–1000 µL with ≤5% error. The system must support 96-well and 384-well plates, reagent reservoirs, magnetic separation systems, and facilitate liquid transfer between plates and tube racks. It must also include safety stop mechanisms, operate on standard 110V power, and fit within a footprint of < 30” W x 25” D. The purchase includes the complete system, all components, accessories, consumables for at least 96 samples, a minimum 12-month manufacturer warranty, and on-site training for at least two users. Only new equipment will be accepted.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Survey (anticipates Firm-Fixed-Price contract for purchase, delivery, installation, training, and warranty)
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)
- NAICS Code: 334516 – Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (Small Business Size Standard: 1,000 Employees)
- Response Due: June 10, 2026, 12:00 PM ET
- Published: June 3, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
Interested vendors must submit a capability statement (PDF, maximum 10 pages excluding literature/GSA) via email to Reagan.Davis@fda.hhs.gov. The statement should include company name, address, UEI, business size/status, relevant experience, proposed system description, timeline ability, GSA Schedule information (if applicable), small business subcontracting opportunities, manufacturer identification, and country of origin. Responses from both small and other-than-small businesses are welcome. The FDA will not provide feedback or evaluations of submitted capabilities.
Additional Notes
References to PacBio Sequel IIe are for describing interoperability and performance outcomes; equal products meeting salient characteristics will be considered. Delivery is required within 60 calendar days after award, with installation within 30 days after delivery. No Government-Furnished Property will be provided.