FORMULATRIX F.A.S.T. Liquid Handler
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 Defense Health Agency (DHA), on behalf of the Walter Reed Army Institute for Research (WRAIR) Medical Readiness Systems Biology Branch (MRSBB), has issued a Request for Information (RFI)/Sources Sought (SS) for a FORMULATRIX F.A.S.T. Liquid Handler. This notice seeks industry feedback and capabilities for a liquid handling system that meets specific technical requirements. Responses are due March 10, 2026, at 10:00 AM EST.
Purpose
This RFI/SS is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or an obligation by the government. Its primary goal is to gather information and industry feedback regarding the potential purchase of a FORMULATRIX F.A.T.S. Liquid Handler, specifically the F.A.S.T. Instrument V2 with a 96-channel head.
Scope of Interest & Key Requirements
The government is seeking a liquid handling system that includes integrated controlling software, associated licenses, F.A.S.T. OLINK Installation Qualifications/Operational Qualifications, plate adapters, a 110-240V power supply, and on-site user training. The system must be compatible with OLINK Signature Q100 instruments currently in use by WRAIR MRSBB.
Minimum Essential Characteristics (MECs) include:
- Dimensions: Max 532mm (W) x 403mm (H) x 596mm (D); Weight: Not over 18kg.
- Functionality: Rapid and efficient liquid transfer in 96-well or 384-well plates, with volume dispensing from 0.1 µL to 13 µL (5% CV precision at 0.1 µL) and 0.5-50 µL.
- Features: Tip position sensors, automatic tip arrangement, collision detection, interchangeable decks, semi/fully automated labware definitions, calibration, and automated audit trails.
- Technology: Positive displacement disposable tips, contact dispensing with wide viscosity range.
- Computing & Controls: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 compatible Debian Linux on-board computer, web browser-based operational controls (e.g., Chrome v91+).
- Compatibility: Must be compatible with Integrated Fluidic Circuits (IFCs) 192.24, 96.96, 48.84, and a validated solution for Olink IFCs and Proximity Extension Assay (PEA) workflows (Target 48/96, Explore 3072, Explore-HT).
- Olink Support: Includes Olink pre and post workflows, Protocol bundles, IQ, OQ, and new install training.
- Delivery Location: Robert Grant Ave, BLDG 503-Ground West 47, Silver Spring, MD 20910-7500.
Submission Details
Respondents should submit capability statements or fact sheets demonstrating how they can fulfill the MECs. Submissions must be electronic (Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF), not exceed 3 pages (excluding cover page), and include a cover page with organization details and points of contact. Respondents should also indicate if they offer similar services commercially and, if an authorized 3rd-party vendor, provide applicable contract information (e.g., GSA).
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought (SS)
- NAICS Code: 334516 – Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- Response Due: March 10, 2026, 10:00 AM EST
- Published: March 2, 2026
Points of Contact
- Primary: Herbert Keen (herbert.e.keen.civ@health.mil)
- Secondary: Lance Nowell (lance.l.nowell.civ@health.mil)
Additional Notes
No payment will be made for information submitted, and no evaluation letters or results will be issued. The government will not entertain questions regarding this RFI/SS and reserves the right not to compete the requirement based on responses.