Preventive maintenance-repair (PM/R) service agreement for a Bruker 7T scimaX mass spectrometer.
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), on behalf of the National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR), has issued a Sources Sought Notice (SSN) to identify small business sources capable of providing preventive maintenance-repair (PM/R) services for a Bruker 7T scimaX mass spectrometer. This is a market survey, not a solicitation, and no contract will be awarded from this announcement. Responses are due March 23, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
The NCTR's Division of Systems Biology (DSB) utilizes a Bruker scimaX FT mass spectrometer for Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI MSI), a critical technology for analyzing tissue sections in toxicity and developmental studies. Optimal operation of this high-resolution system is essential due to heavy agency-wide workload. The FDA seeks to ensure continuous performance through a PM/R service agreement.
The required services include:
- One (1) planned on-site preventive maintenance visit annually for certification/calibration.
- Priority technical support (email/telephone) during business hours (M-F, 8 AM - 5 PM ET).
- On-demand on-site corrective maintenance with engineer labor, travel, and factory-certified replacement parts (including one laser), targeting a 5-business-day response.
- Priority status for technical support inquiries with immediate response target, including remote diagnosis.
- Direct access to the manufacturer's call center for technical assistance.
- Compass Data Analysis software and firmware updates as required by the OEM.
- All maintenance performed by formally trained and certified technicians/engineers using OEM specifications and parts.
- All service pricing must be inclusive of labor, travel, and parts.
- Provision of field service reports after each service call.
Contract Details
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought Notice (SSN)
- NAICS: 811210 – Electronic and Precision Equipment Repair and Maintenance (Small Business Size Standard: $34 Million)
- Period of Performance: Base year (4/17/2026 - 4/16/2027) and two (2) option years, subject to change.
- Place of Performance: National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR), Jefferson, AR 72079.
Submission Requirements & Evaluation
The FDA is primarily seeking small business sources but encourages all interested parties to respond. Responses should unequivocally demonstrate the firm's regular engagement in similar services. Required submission elements include:
- Business information (name, UEI, address, size status, POC).
- Past performance (last 3 years) for similar services.
- Descriptive literature and technical information demonstrating capability to meet requirements.
- Capability to initiate service within 3 days.
- GSA Schedule/BIC contract information (if applicable).
- Subcontracting opportunities (for large businesses).
- Standard commercial warranty and payment terms.
- Information pertaining to Buy American statute.
- Informational pricing (helpful for market research).
Deadlines & Contact
- Response Due: March 23, 2026, by 2:00 PM Central Time.
- Submission Method: Email capability statements to timothy.walbert@fda.hhs.gov.
- Subject Line: Reference "FDA SSN 75F40126SSN133227".
- Contact: Tim Walbert (timothy.walbert@fda.hhs.gov).
Important Notes
This is for market research only. It is not a request for proposals or quotes, and no contract will be awarded from this notice. The Government will not reimburse for response costs. Responses will not be considered adequate for a future solicitation. Do not include proprietary or sensitive information.