NIH/NIAID – Phenom Pharos G2 Desktop Scanning Electron Microscope (Brand Name or Equal)

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), Vaccine Research Center is procuring one Phenom Pharos G2 Desktop Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM) system through a brand-name or equal competitive acquisition. The procurement includes associated accessories, software, installation support, training for up to five staff members, and a comprehensive one-year warranty to expand the Structural Biology Core's negative stain screening capacity for cryo-electron microscopy research supporting vaccine development for COVID-19, HIV-1, malaria, influenza, and RSV. The system must meet specific technical requirements including a field emission source with adjustable accelerating voltage (1-20 kV), maximum magnification of 2,000,000x, resolution of 2.0 nm, and various detectors and software capabilities. This full and open competition is being conducted using commercial item procedures under FAR Parts 12 and 13 with a Firm-Fixed-Price purchase order anticipated. Quotes are due by September 22, 2025, at 8:00 AM Eastern Time and must include technical descriptions, pricing information, UEI number, business size classification, and completed required certifications.

Despite the procurement description indicating "full and open competition," the Combined Synopsis/Solicitation indicates this acquisition is actually set aside for small businesses under NAICS code 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing) with a size standard of 1,000 employees. No current incumbents or contractors are specifically identified in the solicitation documents, and no budget range or award value is disclosed in the available materials. The procurement calls for delivery of one complete desktop scanning electron microscope system within 55-70 days (8-10 weeks) after receipt of order. Performance will take place at the NIH/NIAID Vaccine Research Center in Bethesda, Maryland 20892. The government reserves the right to make no award if deemed in its best interest, and all submissions must be made electronically to the designated Contracting Officer.