Service Agreement: FACSymphony A5 Flow Cytometry 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 Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) intends to procure a Service Agreement for the FACSymphony A5 Flow Cytometry System on a sole-source basis from BD Biosciences. This combined synopsis/solicitation (RFQ 75N94026Q00046) is for maintenance and support services for specialized laboratory equipment. Quotations are due by February 19, 2026, at 10:00 AM EDT.
Scope of Work
This agreement provides full coverage for the BD FACSymphony A5, FACStation, and FACS Flow Supply System, including its components with 5 lasers. Services include:
- Two (2) Preventive Maintenance Inspections annually.
- Two (2) PM Kits provided.
- Software revisions released during the agreement term.
- Unlimited service visits (Monday-Friday, excluding BD holidays).
- 48-hour guaranteed response for emergency on-site service.
- Unlimited telephone support, remote troubleshooting, and support for reagents/applications.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed-Price (RFQ)
- NAICS Code: 811210 ($34M size standard)
- Set-Aside: Not set aside for small business.
- Period of Performance: Base Year (March 1, 2026 – February 28, 2027) plus two (2) Option Periods, extending through February 28, 2029.
- Quotation Due: February 19, 2026, 10:00 AM EDT
- Published: February 10, 2026
Justification for Sole Source
NICHD intends to contract with BD Biosciences due to the custom-built nature of the FACSymphony A5 with customized laser/filter combinations and specific hardware/software modifications made by BD Biosciences during the warranty period. BD Biosciences is the original manufacturer, holds proprietary technology, does not certify third-party service providers in the U.S., and is uniquely capable of providing necessary parts, software revisions, and OEM-certified technicians to maintain the equipment's integrity for ongoing clinical and preclinical studies.
Submission Requirements
Offerors must submit a completed copy of FAR Clause 52.212-1, Instructions to Offerors. Alternate offerors must include a signed agreement from BD Biosciences confirming authorization to provide all specified services, consumables, proprietary information, and use original manufacturer parts. Responses without this manufacturer confirmation will be considered invalid. All quotes must reference "Solicitation number 75N94026Q00046" and be emailed to robinsti@mail.nih.gov. Offerors must be registered in SAM.gov.
Applicable Clauses
The solicitation includes various FAR clauses, such as 52.203-18, 52.204-7, 52.212-4, 52.222-3, and others, available at acquisition.gov/far/.