Design for Exposure Tank System

The University of Texas at Austin Marine Science Institute (UTMSI) has issued Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 721-25083 for a comprehensive design, fabrication, and installation of a custom controlled tank exposure system for toxicological research at the Center for Coastal Ocean Science. The project requires a qualified aquatic systems design firm to develop a laboratory exposure system in Room 121 CCOS, capable of distributing filtered seawater through 32 exposure chambers organized into 8 arrays of 4 chambers each. The system must support precise environmental control, including management of light, temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, pCO2, and contaminant levels for long-term marine research experiments lasting 30-120 days, specifically focused on sheepshead minnows. Proposals are due on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 2:30 PM local time via the University Bonfire Portal. The evaluation process will utilize a "best value" criteria with specific weightings: respondents' qualifications (25%), quality of proposed services (20%), price proposal (35%), and business relationship strength (15%). Potential bidders must submit an Electronic HUB Subcontracting Plan and adhere to comprehensive technical requirements outlined in the solicitation documents.

The University has established a HUB (Historically Underutilized Business) Subcontracting Goal of 32.9% for Special Trades, which encourages participation from economically disadvantaged businesses. Respondents must provide detailed pricing information, including design, fabrication, delivery, and installation costs, along with warranty terms and a comprehensive implementation timeline. The contract will be governed by the University of Texas at Austin Purchase Order Terms and Conditions, with net 30-day payment terms. Bidders must comply with several certification requirements, including verifications related to anti-boycott provisions, cybersecurity training, and restrictions on vendors owned or controlled by citizens of specific countries. While a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the project involves a complex marine research infrastructure system that would likely require significant technical expertise and capital investment. Potential contractors must demonstrate the ability to create a modular exposure system that can accommodate future research modifications and experimental needs.