Rodent Neural Imaging System (UW-Mad) [18-0063]

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is seeking bids for a Rodent Neural Imaging System through a Request for Bid (RFB) process located in Dane County, Madison. The procurement is for a comprehensive hardware-software system designed to visualize calcium transients in individual neurons within deep brain structures of awake-behaving rats. Specific required components include camera lenses, stereotaxic implantation equipment, cabling, fluorescent detectors, and comprehensive data analysis software with on-site training. The system must have capabilities to track calcium activity across multiple individual rodents in freely moving conditions, analyze data across distinct task events, and provide complete neuropil signal subtraction functionality. Key procurement dates include written questions due by April 19, 2018, and bid submissions due by April 26, 2018, at 2:00 PM CDT. Bidders must be original manufacturers, authorized distributors, or dealers with service and repair capabilities, and must have provided similar neural imaging systems for at least three years. The University reserves the right to conduct oral presentations, product demonstrations, and vendor site visits at its sole discretion prior to award determination.

The solicitation includes specific supplier diversity preferences, with potential awards potentially made to certified Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), Woman-Owned Businesses (WBE), and Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (DVB). Certified firms submitting bids not more than 5 percent higher than the apparent low bid may receive preferential consideration. Contractors must maintain commercial general liability insurance with a minimum of $1,000,000 coverage and provide a certificate of insurance naming the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System as an additional insured. Maintenance requirements include on-site repair with replacement parts accessible within five days, service response within 72 hours of initial contact, and progress reporting within two weeks. Payment terms are net thirty (30) days following acceptance of goods and services. The delivery location is specified as 1202 West Johnson Street, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, with all delivery and installation charges to be borne by the bidder. While no specific budget range is disclosed, the procurement is for one (1) complete Rodent Neural Imaging System with comprehensive technical specifications.