Digital Slide Scanner System

The Food and Drug Administration's National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR) is soliciting quotes for a Digital Slide Scanner system to replace aging equipment that is no longer manufacturer-supported and poses cybersecurity risks due to outdated software. The system must meet comprehensive technical specifications including magnification capabilities from 1.25X through 40X, minimum 4-megapixel resolution, brightfield and fluorescence scanning capabilities across seven channels (360-770nm wavelength range), z-stack functionality for 3D imaging, automatic tissue finder capability, barcode scanning, and image analysis software for quantifying stained cells on animal tissues. The scanner must support .svs image format compatibility with existing archived scans, include a 50-slide autoloader, connect to networked servers with multi-factor authentication and encryption compliance per Executive Order 14028, and operate within a footprint under 9'x9' on a 110/115V 20-amp circuit. Evaluation will prioritize technical capability over price, with technical capability weighted more heavily in the award decision. Questions regarding the solicitation must be submitted by April 27, 2026, at 1:00 P.M. Central Time, and offers are due by May 4, 2026, at 1:00 P.M. Central Time to david.kramer@fda.hhs.gov.

This is not a small business set-aside; the NAICS code is 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing) with a 1,000-employee size standard. The current incumbent equipment is a Leica Aperio AT2 system that requires replacement. The contract uses a firm fixed-price structure with delivery required within 90 calendar days of award to Jefferson, Arkansas, including on-site installation, testing, and three days of training. The pricing includes CLIN 0001 for the scanner equipment, CLIN 1001 for a 12-month OEM warranty base period commencing upon acceptance, and CLINs 2001-4001 for three optional one-year post-warranty service periods covering preventative maintenance, unlimited corrective repairs within five calendar days, technical support Monday-Friday within eight business hours, and unlimited software updates. The base contract period runs from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2027, with optional service extensions available through August 31, 2031, and quote validity extends through September 30, 2026.