Cytation 5 Cell Imaging Multi-Mode Reader

The Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service seeks one Cytation 5 Cell Imaging Multi-Mode Reader via RFQ 1232SA26Q0707, with quotations due July 9, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Central Time. The procurement is unrestricted and open to all responsible sources, though a Justification and Approval Decision restricts competition to Agilent Technologies, Inc., as sole manufacturer capable of meeting mandatory compatibility and performance requirements.

Place of performance is Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania (Eastern Regional Research Center). The instrument must support brightfield and fluorescence microscopy imaging of bacteria, maintain incubation temperatures of 60°C or higher with shaking capability, perform monochromator-based fluorescence intensity measurement and time-resolved fluorescence assays across 200–700 nm wavelengths, deliver a minimum 6-log dynamic range for fluorescence measurement, and accommodate user-changeable objectives and filters for microplates, slides, and dishes. Optional desirable features include gas control and reagent injector capabilities. The procurement is justified by the agency's established protocol for time-lapse imaging of bacterial morphology using the Cytation 5 platform, documented in published research; the agency requires consistency and reproducibility of previously generated and ongoing data. Delivery must occur by September 30, 2026 on an F.O.B. Destination basis with all shipping costs included.

The NAICS code is 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing); the small business size standard is 1,000 employees. This acquisition is not set-aside for small business. Award will follow lowest price technically acceptable methodology, evaluated on fair and reasonable price, technical acceptability against all specifications and schedule requirements, and past performance. Quotations must include detailed technical documentation demonstrating compliance and a Vendor Country of Origin & Place of Manufacture Declaration. Prices must remain firm for 60 calendar days. Offerors must provide their SAM Unique Entity Identifier with pricing.