NIGP 49525: Biology Specimens and Cultures (Except Microbial)

NIGP 49525 Biology Specimens and Cultures (Except Microbial), an Item code, encompasses laboratory specimen collection, drug testing services, and specialized imaging equipment used in clinical and research settings by state and local jurisdictions. Recent solicitations show state and local governments buying phlebotomy and specimen collection services for custody and community supervision populations, drug screening and confirmation testing with multiple methodologies (immunoassay, LC/MS/MS, GC/MS, oral fluid, and hair testing), and laboratory equipment for controlled-environment cell imaging applications. Issuing bodies include county criminal justice and community supervision departments (Marion County, Oregon; Collin County, Texas Community Supervision and Corrections Department) and university research institutes (NC State University's Plants for Human Health Institute). The work typically bundles staffing, specimen handling, courier services, electronic reporting systems, and lab certification compliance under state or federal regulatory frameworks (SAMHSA, state DPS, CAP accreditation).

Recent activity spans Oregon and Texas in criminal justice applications and North Carolina in academic research. Two representative opportunities illustrate the current demand: Marion County, Oregon issued an ITB (SO1814-26) for laboratory testing services and phlebotomy for adults in custody with response due July 24, 2026; Collin County Community Supervision and Corrections Department issued RFP 2026-327 for offender specimen collection and drug testing services covering two collection sites with approximately 25,031 annual tests, an estimated contract value of $600,000, a two-year base term commencing September 1, 2026, with three optional one-year renewal periods, and an anticipated award date of August 10, 2026. NC State University's Procurement and Business Services division issued RFQ 63-ARM1165348 for an automated live-cell imaging system suitable for incubator or controlled-environment use with response due March 30, 2026, and a resident-bidder price-matching preference available under North Carolina Executive Order No. 50.