Maintenance for the Carl Zeiss LSM 880 Confocal 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 Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Office of Mission Acquisition Solutions (OMAS), is seeking to renew an annual service agreement for the Carl Zeiss LSM 880 Confocal Microscope (SN:2850100120) located at the NCI Optical Microscopy Core, LRBGE in Bethesda, MD. This is a Presolicitation notice for a non-competitive acquisition, as Carl Zeiss Microscopy, LLC is identified as the sole authorized service provider and original equipment manufacturer (OEM). The requirement is for maintenance and repair services to ensure continuous operation of this critical government-owned instrument. Capability statements from other responsible sources are due by April 27, 2026.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for a one-year Protect Premium Service Agreement for the Carl Zeiss LSM 880 confocal microscope. Services include preventive maintenance, timely repairs, and ensuring continuous operation. The scope covers:
- Preventive Maintenance: Performed according to manufacturer's standard commercial practices, with operational testing post-maintenance.
- Repair Services: Emergency service to restore equipment to normal operating condition.
- Coverage: Includes labor, travel, covered replacement parts (e.g., Microscope body, Scan Module, Spectral Detector, Laser Module), and a 10% discount on consumables and instrument upgrades.
- Software: SMA coverage, regular software updates, version upgrades, new features, IT security patches, and full ZEISS product support for the proprietary ZEN microscopy software platform.
- Personnel: All technical support personnel must be Carl Zeiss-authorized and factory-trained Field Service Engineers.
- Exclusions: Does not cover third-party OEM items, consumables with limited life, non-ZEISS lasers/accessories, intentional acts, unauthorized service, customer peripherals, misuse, or data recovery for system workstations.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Presolicitation (Non-competitive)
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed-Price Purchase Order
- Duration: One base year, from May 1, 2026, to April 30, 2027.
- Set-Aside: None (Restricted Competition)
- NAICS Code: 811210 - Other Electronic and Precision Equipment Repair and Maintenance
- Response Due: April 27, 2026, by 3:00 PM EST
- Published: April 21, 2026
Justification for Restricted Competition
Competition is restricted to Carl Zeiss Microscopy, LLC based on the Contracting Officer's determination that they are the only source available. This is due to their status as the OEM and sole proprietary manufacturer of the LSM 880 system, provider of all spare/replacement components, sole vendor with proprietary components in the U.S., and the only entity capable of providing factory-trained Field Service Engineers and authorized software updates for the proprietary ZEN software. Carl Zeiss Microscopy, LLC does not authorize third-party service providers.
Response Instructions
This notice is not a request for competitive quotations. However, responsible sources may submit a capability statement detailing their ability to fulfill the requirement. Submissions must be in writing and contain sufficient detail for the agency to assess capability. Information received will be considered solely for determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. Contractors must be registered and have valid certification through SAM.gov to receive an award.
Contact Information
For submissions or inquiries, contact Joseph Kozar at joseph.kozar@hhs.gov.