How to bid on an Odyssey® M Imager for the Department of Health and Human Services

What the agency is buying

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), part of the Department of Health and Human Services, intends to purchase an Odyssey® M Imager and its related components from LI-COR Biosciences. This equipment is a specialized imaging system that combines near-infrared and visible fluorescence imaging, trans and epi illumination, and optional luminescence detection. It uses line-scanning technology for fluorescence and CCD detection for luminescence, offering a wide dynamic range for quantitative imaging.

The NIH currently plans a single-source purchase, stating that LI-COR Biosciences is the only known supplier capable of providing the required system due to its proprietary nature and unique configuration. However, this notice is an opportunity for other vendors to demonstrate their capability to meet these specific requirements.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The deadline for submitting capability statements is September 17, 2026, at 9:00 AM ET. All responses must be received by this time. The government will review all timely submissions to decide whether to proceed with a single-source procurement or open the opportunity for competition.

The NIH anticipates making an award approximately five calendar days after the closing date, unless another responsible source is identified as capable of meeting the requirement.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is for vendors who can supply an Odyssey® M Imager and associated components that precisely match the detailed specifications outlined by the NIH. It is particularly relevant for firms that manufacture or can provide highly specialized laboratory imaging equipment with advanced fluorescence and luminescence detection capabilities. If your company can offer a system with the unique combination of features, line-scanning technology, and dynamic range described, you should consider responding.

How to respond

To respond to this request for information, you must submit a capability statement electronically. Your statement should clearly demonstrate your ability to provide the Odyssey® M Imager and its associated components, meeting all the government's required specifications. Email your capability statement to [email protected].

It is crucial to reference Notice No. 75N98026Q01162 in the subject line of your email to ensure your submission is correctly identified. Make sure your statement arrives before the September 17, 2026, 9:00 AM ET deadline.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

When preparing your capability statement, focus on directly addressing each specific requirement mentioned in the solicitation. Since the agency has identified a sole source, your response must clearly articulate how your offering provides an equivalent or superior solution to the LI-COR Biosciences Odyssey® M Imager, specifically highlighting features like near-infrared and visible fluorescence imaging, trans and epi illumination, optional luminescence detection, line-scanning technology, sCMOS detection, CCD detection, and a wide dynamic range.

Provide concrete evidence or detailed descriptions of how your product meets or exceeds these technical specifications. Emphasize any unique aspects of your system that make it a viable alternative. Ensure your statement is concise, well-organized, and easy for the agency to understand, allowing them to quickly assess your firm's capabilities.