Notice of Intent to Sole Source High-Density Microelectrode Array 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 Defense Health Agency Contracting Activity (DHACA), on behalf of the United States’ Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense (USAMRICD), has issued a Notice of Intent (NOI) to award a sole-source, Firm-Fixed-Price contract to 3Brain US LLC for a High-Density Microelectrode Array (MEA) System. This system is critical for high-resolution electrophysiological recordings in 3D biological models and excised tissues. Responses challenging this sole-source intent are due by April 20, 2026.
Scope of Requirement
USAMRICD requires a complete High-Density MEA System for functional imaging of neuronal activity and understanding cellular interactions. Key requirements include:
- High-Density MEA System (Qty: 1): Must detect, monitor, and analyze intracellular electrochemical activity with >1,000 electrodes, simultaneous recording/readout/stimulation, minimum 10 kHz sampling per electrode, and at least two programmable stimulation channels. It must support 3D tissue penetration and be compatible with excised brain, heart, and skeletal muscle tissue. Includes a mini-incubator (37°C, 5% CO2).
- Compatible Sample Holders and Plates: Includes various net sizes (1000/60, 1000/90, 300/60, 300/90) and five single-well microchip plates with 3D tissue technology (min. 25mm well diameter).
- Software and Workstation: Software capable of spike sorting/analysis from all electrodes (perpetual license), a high-performance Windows 11 workstation (4TB SSD, GDDR5 graphics card, TAA preferred), and a high-resolution monitor (>2000x1000).
- Services: Comprehensive training within 30 days of receipt and delivery within 12 weeks post-award. Information on extended warranty availability is requested.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Notice of Intent to Sole Source (Firm-Fixed-Price)
- NAICS: 334516 – Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing
- PSC: 6640 – Laboratory Equipment And Supplies
- Set-Aside: Not Applicable (Sole Source Intent)
- Response Due: April 20, 2026, 2:00 PM EDT
- Published: April 6, 2026
- Place of Performance: Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD
Response Requirements
This NOI is not a request for competitive proposals. Interested parties who believe they can meet all requirements must submit a white paper (limited to 4 pages) by the response date. The white paper must include:
- Company Name, Address, Cage Code, UEI
- Company business size by NAICS code and Small Business Type(s)
- How eligibility requirements are met
- Point of Contact, Telephone, and Email
- Teaming Partners (if applicable)
Submissions must be sent via email to Nicholas.a.vandevander.civ@health.mil. Responses that solely ask questions or request documentation will not be considered affirmative responses.