Request For Information/Sources Sought; National Cancer Institute Center For Ca

The Department of the Interior, on behalf of the National Cancer Institute's Center for Cancer Research, is seeking information regarding the availability of an automated robotic arm system with integrated software to restore plate-handling capabilities within its existing NIH high-throughput imaging automation platform. Respondents must provide detailed company information including their UEI in SAM, business size classification under NAICS code 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing), comprehensive specifications of the proposed robotic arm system including software names and manufacturer information, confirmation of commercial availability, and GSA Federal Supply Schedule or federal marketplace listings. The robotic arm must maintain full compatibility with NCI's established automation platform architecture, which includes a pre-positioned robotic mounting table, three vertically configured plate hotels, integrated safety systems, a fixed barcode reader, and a dedicated control workstation, while supporting the existing scheduling software that coordinates robotic motion, plate handling, barcode tracking, and instrument interface commands. Critical submission requirements include providing country of origin information relative to Trade Agreement Act and Buy American statute compliance, expected system lifespan, leasing availability with rough order of magnitude pricing, and certification of commercial availability. Questions must be submitted by 9:00 AM ET on March 31, 2026, and all responses are due by 9:00 AM ET on April 8, 2026, directed to both Melissa Onyszko and Desmond Harris via email.

This Pre-solicitation Notice does not utilize any set-aside designations and includes no identified incumbent contractors or current competitors. No specific award value or budget range is disclosed in this market research notice, as it is intended for acquisition planning and feasibility assessment purposes only and does not constitute a commitment to issue a formal solicitation or award a contract. The scope of any potential future procurement would encompass robotic arm hardware, compatible integration software, integration and configuration services, mounting hardware, and shipping; however, specific quantities, timelines for delivery, and performance metrics are not outlined in this Request for Information. All response costs remain the responsibility of interested parties, with the Government declining to reimburse any expenses incurred in preparing submissions. This notice represents an early opportunity for qualified vendors to engage with the National Cancer Institute regarding their technical capabilities and commercial offerings in automated robotic systems for laboratory automation applications.