Nikon AX-FN BPU Stimulation Back Port for FRAP Applications

The National Institutes of Health, Office of Logistics and Acquisition Operations is conducting a non-competitive procurement of a Nikon AX-FN BPU Stimulation Back Port for FRAP Applications, with capability statements and proposals due by September 18, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. EDT. This is a sole-source award to Nikon Instruments Inc. based on the vendor's exclusive capability to provide and install the component while preserving factory warranty on the existing Nikon AX upright spinning-disk confocal microscope system.

The procuring organization is NIH on behalf of the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD). The Laboratory of Cell Structure and Dynamics requires the stimulation back port to safely integrate the existing FRAP laser module into the microscope optical path for advanced live-cell imaging experiments on auditory and vestibular sensory hair cells. The required component must achieve full compatibility with existing optical components, cameras, and imaging software; permit proper routing and alignment of FRAP laser illumination; support simultaneous confocal imaging and FRAP applications; and include all necessary hardware and documentation for installation and operation.

The procurement is classified under NAICS 333310 (Commercial and Service Industry Machinery Manufacturing) and conducted under FAR Part 13 Simplified Acquisition Procedures at an amount not exceeding the Simplified Acquisition Threshold. Equipment delivery is due within 60 days after award to NIDCD, 35 Convent Drive, Room 3D-824, Bethesda, Maryland 20892. Interested parties should submit capability statements or proposals to Kierre Person (kierre.person@nih.gov) and Roxane Burkett (roxane.burkett@nih.gov).