Intent to Sole Source - Varioskan LUX Multimode Microplate Reader

The Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Health Administration Veterans Integrated Service Network 4 has published a Special Notice announcing its intent to sole source a Varioskan LUX Multimode Microplate Reader from Life Technologies Corporation. The procurement is specifically for the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System and focuses on acquiring a specialized scientific instrument with advanced features like automated dynamic range selection and built-in safety controls. The notice is being processed under Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 6.302-1, which allows for sole source procurement in specific circumstances. The scientific instrument will be provided to the Pittsburgh VA Medical Center-University Drive, representing a targeted acquisition for medical research or diagnostic purposes. The notice was posted on April 2, 2025, with a response deadline of April 7, 2025.

Contractors interested in responding to this Special Notice must submit capability statements via email to mickeya.linzie@va.gov by Monday, 4/7/2025 at 8:00 AM EST. Submission requirements include providing the company name, SAM Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number, address, point of contact information, and business size. The procurement falls under NAICS category 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing), with a standard size threshold of 1,000 employees. While the VA will review submitted capability statements, the agency retains full discretion in determining whether to compete the procurement. The anticipated contract is expected to be awarded directly to Life Technologies Corporation, located in Carlsbad, California. The Product Service Code (PSC) for this acquisition is 6515, which covers medical and surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies.