Flow Cytometer for NIDDK

The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), on behalf of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), is seeking qualified small businesses to provide a high-speed, high-parameter flow cytometer instrument for research operations. The required system must feature acoustic focusing technology with 6 spatially separated flat-top lasers, 51 fluorescence detectors, and dual conventional/spectral unmixing capabilities for precise cell analysis in immunology and immuno-oncology research. The flow cytometer must process samples at flow rates between 12.5-500 microliters per minute, analyze particles sized 0.16-50 micrometers, and capture up to 35,000 events per second with 6 decades of resolution, while maintaining a minimum uptake volume of 20 microliters. Capability statements are limited to 10 pages and must address flow cytometer manufacturing, software development, service support, delivery capabilities, and relevant past performance with government or research facilities. The submission deadline is August 17, 2025, at 5:00 PM EDT, with responses to be sent to Jacob.balenson@nih.gov.

This procurement opportunity 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 system must include comprehensive Windows-based software with FCS 3.1 file format compatibility, statistical analysis tools, and a high-performance workstation equipped with an Intel Core i9 processor and 64 GB RAM. Additional requirements include compatibility with the CytKick Max Autosampler, customer training, and a one-year warranty covering the complete system. The government anticipates awarding a commercial, fixed-price purchase order with lump sum payment after acceptance, with delivery and installation required at Building 10, Room 10S224 in Bethesda, MD within 90 days after receipt of order. No incumbent contractors or specific budget ranges were mentioned in this sources sought notice, as this represents the initial market research phase of the procurement process.