Gel and blot high-resolution imaging system.
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 to identify qualified vendors for a high-resolution gel and blot imaging system. This system is required to replace a non-functional Bio-Rad ChemiDoc system at the Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research (OSCTR). Responses are due by February 6, 2026, 5 PM EST.
Scope of Work
The OSCTR requires a new high-resolution imaging system to support critical research workflows, enabling accurate imaging and quantitative analysis of gels and blots for protein and nucleic acid studies. The objective is to acquire a Bio-Rad ChemiDoc MP Imaging System (Model/Catalog No. 12003154 or equivalent), including training, installation, shipping, and a one-year warranty.
Key Requirements & Specifications
The required system must meet specific technical specifications, including:
- High-resolution CCD camera: 6.05 megapixels (2,750 H x 2,200 V pixels)
- Quantum efficiency: Up to 75% at 525 nm
- Optics: f/0.95 fast lens, 16-bit data acquisition
- Cooling: Peltier cooling to -15°C for low noise
- Illumination: Multiple sources (UV, white, blue, green, red, near-infrared)
- Technology: Smart Tray Technology, Integrated Image Lab Touch Software, compatibility with stain-free technology
- Features: Factory calibration and integrated safety features
Submission Requirements
Interested companies should submit a capability statement addressing each project requirement. The statement must include:
- Total number of employees
- Professional qualifications of personnel
- Any applicable GSA Schedule or GWAC contracts
- Company Name, Unique Entity ID, Physical Address, and Point of Contact information
- Business type, applicable NAICS Code (6640 - Laboratory Equipment And Supplies), and size standards.
- For equipment/supply, include place of manufacturing and address the Non-Manufacturer Rule for small businesses. The response is limited to ten pages (excluding cover, executive summary, references) and must be in Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF format, 11 or 12-point font, 1” margins.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified, but small businesses are encouraged to respond.
- Response Due: February 6, 2026, 5 PM EST
- Published: January 27, 2026
- Contact: Irisneia Merscher (irisneia.merscher@hhs.gov)
Additional Notes
This is strictly for research and information purposes; it is not a solicitation. The Government will not be responsible for costs incurred by respondents. Responses will help determine qualified sources, acquisition method, and availability of domestic sources.