Benchtop Microbial Bioreactor System

The FDA's Office of Pharmaceutical Quality Research is seeking to procure two complete benchtop bioreactor systems for cultivating Escherichia coli in research focused on cell-free protein synthesis platforms used in manufacturing human therapeutic proteins. Each system must feature a 10-liter working volume capacity with automated control and monitoring capabilities for temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, foam levels, and turbidity, along with a control tower with software, bi-directional agitation with Rushton-type impellers, four mass flow controllers for gas mixing, and at least four variable-speed peristaltic pumps. The procurement includes comprehensive sensor packages, double-walled borosilicate glass vessels, stainless steel components, all necessary sensors and accessories, consumables for initial operation, onsite installation and training, and a one-year OEM warranty. This firm fixed-price commercial item purchase order is being competed under FAR Part 13.106 as a Request for Quote solicitation. Quotes must be submitted via email to Janice.Heard@fda.hhs.gov by 2:00 PM Eastern Time on August 21, 2025.

This procurement is designated as a total small business set-aside under NAICS code 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing) with a size standard of 1,000 employees. The solicitation does not identify any incumbent contractors or provide specific budget ranges or award values for the procurement. The contract requires delivery of two complete bioreactor systems, each with 10-liter working volume capacity and comprehensive automation features for supporting the FDA's research into emerging manufacturing technologies for therapeutic protein production. Performance will take place at the FDA White Oak facility in Silver Spring, Maryland, where onsite installation and training services must be provided as part of the contract deliverables.