FDA - AI sample finder for Zeiss inverted microscope
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 Biologics Research and Review (CBER), Division of Biological Standards and Quality Control (DBSQC), Laboratory of Biochemistry, Virology and Immunochemistry (LBVI), is conducting a Sources Sought market survey to identify potential sources for an AI Sample Finder. This equipment is required to enhance lot release testing of the Flumist influenza virus vaccine by automating slide preparation and navigation. The AI Sample Finder must seamlessly integrate with an existing Zeiss AXIO Observer Z1 inverted fluorescence motorized microscope (S/N: 383400118). Capability statements are due by June 1, 2026, at 2:00 PM Central Time.
Scope of Work
The core requirement is an AI Sample Finder designed for integration with an existing Zeiss AXIO Observer Z1 inverted fluorescence motorized microscope. The solution must include specific Zeiss or equivalent sub-components, such as:
- Camera Axiocam 305 mono R2
- C-mount adapter 60N C 2/3" 0.63x
- Scanning stage 130x100 PIEZO
- Stage controller XY PIEZO WSB CAN
- Universal mounting frame K-M
- AI sample finder f/Observer
- Zen Toolkit for Bio Apps DLic
- Software upgrade with motorized acquisition toolkit ZEN 3.10 DLic. The acquisition is "brand name or equal," meaning any equivalent product must meet all specified physical, functional, and performance features.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought Notice (SSN) / Market Survey
- Response Due: June 1, 2026, 2:00 PM Central Time
- Published Date: May 27, 2026
- NAICS Code: 334516 - Laboratory Analytical Instrument Manufacturing (Small Business Size Standard: 1,000 employees)
Submission & Evaluation
Interested contractors must submit capability statements via email to timothy.walbert@fda.hhs.gov. Responses should demonstrate the company's capability and include:
- Company name, bio, Unique Entity ID, business address, website, business size status, and contact information.
- Past performance information (within the last 3 years) for similar products/services.
- Descriptive literature, brochures, or marketing material.
- Technical information demonstrating compliance with all specified requirements.
- Capability to initiate service within 5 business days (if applicable).
- GSA Schedule and Best in Class (BIC) contract information (if applicable).
- Information on subcontracting opportunities for small businesses (if a large business).
- Standard commercial warranty and payment terms.
- Place of product manufacture and Buy American Act compliance information. Informational pricing is requested but not required.
Eligibility / Set-Aside
This notice targets small business vendors or small businesses capable of supplying a U.S. product/service. However, other than small business concerns are also encouraged to submit capability statements.
Additional Notes
This is a Sources Sought Notice for market research purposes only and is not a solicitation. No contract will be awarded from this announcement, and no reimbursement will be made for response costs. Telephone calls requesting an RFQ package or solicitation will not be accepted. Responses with weblinks will not be opened. Proprietary, classified, confidential, or sensitive information should not be included. The government reserves the right to use non-proprietary technical information in any resultant solicitation(s). Comments regarding restrictive specifications are also requested.