Benchtop Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorter

The Department of Energy Office of Science, through the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), is seeking quotes for a Benchtop Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorter (FACS) instrument to advance molecular and synthetic biology research capabilities. The procurement aims to enable high-throughput, high-resolution cell population analysis and isolation to accelerate synthetic biology research by precisely selecting and characterizing engineered cell populations. Key technical requirements include laser capabilities at 405nm, 488nm, 561nm, and 637nm wavelengths with greater than 40 mW power, the ability to analyze up to 10,000 events per second, and capacity to sort cells ranging from 1-25 micrometers in size while depositing single cells into 96-well plates in under three minutes. The solicitation uses a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) evaluation method with a firm fixed price purchase order format, and vendors must complete all evaluation process requirements including technical specifications acceptance, representations and certifications, and SAM registration confirmation. The quote submission deadline is September 25, 2025, at 5:00 PM Mountain Time, with a preferred delivery date of November 21, 2025.

This procurement does not utilize any set-aside designations and is open to all qualified vendors meeting the technical specifications. No incumbent contractors or current service providers are identified in the solicitation documents. While specific award values are not disclosed, the procurement includes requirements for a one-year warranty period plus an additional service contract for the second year, along with instrument training and delivery within four weeks of purchase order issuance. The instrument must not exceed maximum dimensions of 7 x 4 x 5 feet and must comply with NRTL standards for laboratory safety. Performance will take place in Golden, Colorado, at NREL facilities, where the equipment will support biomanufacturing and environmental biotechnology research initiatives.