9270-26-R-RFIN-00018

The University of Mississippi is issuing a Notice of Proposed Sole Source Purchase for a Bruker Scientific smartfleX MALDI-Time-Of-Flight Mass Spectrometer (Refurbished), Serial Number 189012200003, along with associated components including a gridless microSCOUT MALDI ion source, a 200 Hz smartbeam solid-state laser, and Compass for Flex software for MS control and data acquisition. This specialized laboratory equipment is intended to support the School of Pharmacy's research protocols, specifically for analyzing complex glycopeptides and intact glycoproteins. The procurement is designated as a sole source acquisition based on the proprietary nature of Bruker's PAN mass range focusing technology, smartbeam laser design, and FlashDetector system, which the School of Pharmacy has determined are essential for its specific research applications. The equipment includes a factory 1-year warranty and certification to meet original manufacturing specifications. Objections to the sole source certification must be submitted by Monday, March 23, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Central Time to Jeff Wells, Procurement Manager, at the University of Mississippi Procurement Services office, with responses deliverable by hand, regular mail, overnight delivery, or email to solesource@olemiss.edu with copies to purchase@olemiss.edu. The University reserves the right to withdraw the sole source certification if another qualified provider is identified or to appeal to the Public Procurement Review Board for approval if sole source status is confirmed.

This procurement is restricted to Bruker Scientific, LLC, as the Original Equipment Manufacturer and sole source capable of providing both the required technology and a factory-backed warranty on the refurbished unit. No incumbent vendors or alternative contractors are identified as qualified alternatives due to the proprietary specifications required for this specialized research application. The total purchase amount is $119,902.50, representing approximately one-third of the equipment's list price and a savings of approximately $234,250.00 compared to new equipment costs. This procurement distinguishes factory-refurbished equipment with manufacturer backing from generic used equipment available through third-party resellers, ensuring compliance with the University's technical and warranty requirements.