Attachment 1 - Purchase Description.pdf

Attachment 1 – Purchase Description

Purchase Description

1. Scope

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), Vaccine Research Center

(VRC), requires the acquisition of one (1) brand-name or equal Phenom Pharos G2 Field

Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM) system, including all specified accessories, software, installation, and training, to expand the Structural Biology Core’s

(SBC) negative stain (NS) screening capacity in support of cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-

EM) research.

2. Background

SBC applies structure-based approaches for the development of antibody therapeutics and vaccines against infectious diseases including COVID-19, HIV-1, malaria, influenza, and RSV. High-resolution cryo-EM data collection requires high-quality samples, which are first evaluated by negative stain screening. Current screening capacity at Frederick

National Laboratory is insufficient due to increased demand across multiple cryo-EM sites.

An additional NS screening instrument is required at ATRF-Frederick to meet VRC’s growing needs.

3. Salient Characteristics

The equipment offered shall be brand-name or equal to the Phenom Pharos G2 FE-SEM and must, at a minimum, provide the following characteristics:

Microscope Performance

• Field emission source with accelerating voltage adjustable from 1 kV to 20 kV, with preset options at 5, 10, and 15 kV.

• Maximum magnification of at least 2,000,000×.

• Resolution of ≤ 2.0 nm (secondary electron detector), ≤ 3.0 nm (backscattered electron detector), and 10 nm at 3 kV.

• Upgradeable with secondary electron detector (SED), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and elemental mapping capabilities.

Stage and Navigation

• Motorized XY stage supporting a sample size capacity of at least 25 mm (d) × 35 mm (h).

• Integrated optical navigation camera providing high-resolution imaging for sample mapping.

• Interactive navigation functionality linking optical and electron images to maintain positional accuracy across modes.

Accessories and Components

• STEM holder with integrated STEM detector capable of bright-field and dark-field imaging.

• Backscattered electron (BSE) detector for material contrast imaging.

• Pre-vacuum pump and backing pump for turbomolecular pump.

• High-resolution color monitor (minimum 24"), workstation, keyboard, and mouse.

• Mini sample kit with preparation tools (sample cups, pin stub mounts, tweezers, etc.).

Software

• Image mapping and stitching software capable of supporting large-area navigation and integrated analysis.

• Workflow automation and integration with external analysis tools must be supported through a programming interface.

• Software updates for included applications (e.g., MAPS, PPI or equal) must be provided at no additional cost to the Government for the duration of the license.

• Licenses must support use by multiple staff; at a minimum, sufficient licenses shall be included to enable both operation at the SEM workstation and analysis on additional user workstations.

• The programming interface must enable direct control of SEM functions through scripting or code execution, allowing connection between the SEM hardware and commonly available scientific programming languages.

Training and Support

• On-site, instructor-led training for SEM operation must be provided by an OEM-authorized or OEM-trained applications engineer.

• Training must be delivered over one business day and accommodate up to five (5)

NIAID staff.

• Online refresher sessions and general technical support must be available at no additional cost to the Government.

• Installation support must be included at no additional cost and performed by an

OEM-authorized or OEM-trained applications engineer.

• On-site requirements include a lab bench at least 5 feet wide and a 110v outlet.

• Warranty must be comprehensive, covering the SEM, all peripherals, and all software, for a minimum period of one year (parts and labor).

4. Quantity

One (1) FE-SEM system with accessories, software, installation, and training package.

5. Delivery

All items shall be delivered and installed within 8–10 weeks after receipt of order (ARO) at the following address. Training shall also be provided on-site at this location:

NIH / NIAID — Vaccine Research Center

Building 40, Room 4607B

40 Convent Drive

Bethesda, MD 20892, USA

6. Basis for Brand-Name or Equal

The Phenom Pharos G2, or equal, is essential because it uniquely combines compact footprint, high-resolution performance, integrated STEM functionality, and compatibility with the Structural Biology Core’s established workflows. These features are necessary to ensure reproducibility of structural biology data and to support urgent vaccine development timelines. This requirement will be solicited on a brand-name or equal basis in accordance with FAR 11.104(b) to maximize competition. Equal products must demonstrate the ability to meet or exceed all salient physical, functional, and performance characteristics—including training, installation, and warranty requirements—to ensure continuity of operations and scientific integrity.