Vibratome Instrument

The Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service is seeking quotations for a Vibratome Instrument designed to cut live tissue under aseptic conditions while preserving specimen integrity for downstream analysis. This is a Request for Quotation (RFQ) issued under solicitation number 1232SA26Q0338 for a single firm fixed price award. Key contract requirements include that the vibratome must operate as a standalone device fitting within a standard biosafety cabinet with maximum dimensions of 20 inches in any direction, accommodate tissue samples up to 2 centimeters in diameter and length, feature automated sectioning capability with blade oscillation of at least 1 millimeter, adjustable blade advance speeds up to 4 millimeters per second, adjustable thickness settings from less than 10 micrometers to 750 micrometers, and be capable of complete decontamination between uses. Evaluation will be conducted using three criteria: Price (evaluated for fairness and reasonableness), Technical Acceptability/Capability (product must meet or exceed all specifications in Attachment 2 with sufficient documentation and delivery availability), and Past Performance (rated as Acceptable, Neutral, or Unacceptable based on demonstrated ability to meet requirements and contract compliance). The deadline for submitting questions is Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 12:00 PM Central Time, and quotations are due by March 30, 2026, with prices remaining firm for 90 calendar days from the offer receipt date.

This acquisition is designated as a Total Small Business Set-Aside with a size standard of 1,000 employees in the Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing industry (NAICS 334516). No incumbent contractor or award value information has been disclosed in the solicitation documents. Delivery is required F.O.B. Destination within 60 days of award to the USDA Agricultural Research Service located at 934 College Station Road, Athens, Georgia 30605, though early deliveries are acceptable. The solicitation incorporates standard Federal Acquisition Regulation provisions including Buy American requirements, sustainable products provisions, and anti-discrimination/DEI compliance certifications. Offerors must submit pricing for all items to be considered responsive, and the Government will make award to the offeror representing the best value.