How to bid on a Confocal Airyscan-2 Detector Microscope for NIH

What the agency is buying and why a vendor would care

The Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health (NIH), specifically the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), is seeking to purchase a Carl Zeiss LSM 990 confocal microscope with an Airyscan-2 detector. This includes delivery, installation, realignment, and recalibration at their Bethesda, MD campus.

This is described as a sole-source procurement due to the proprietary nature of the Zeiss detector and software, which are essential for ongoing live-cell imaging research. The NIDCD requires the specific resolution and sensitivity of the LSM990's Airyscan detector for delicate live imaging work with mouse cochlea explants, and for compatibility with existing research protocols and user familiarity with Zeiss ZEN software.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The solicitation was published on July 29, 2026. All quotations must be submitted electronically by August 6, 2026, before 9:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time. Late submissions may be rejected and not considered for award.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is specifically for vendors who can supply the Carl Zeiss LSM 990 confocal microscope with an Airyscan-2 detector. Given the sole-source nature, it is primarily suited for Carl Zeiss Microscopy or authorized distributors capable of providing this exact brand-name equipment, including delivery, installation, and associated services. The relevant category for this procurement is scientific equipment.

How to respond

Quotations must be submitted electronically to Tina Robinson at [email protected]. The price quote should include the unit price, extended price, total quoted price, any shipping charges, installation/startup/training charges, warranty information, and any other separately priced items. The total quoted price must cover all costs for a complete and fully functional system.

To view the original solicitation documents, click “View original source” on the portal. You may need to click this link twice. A free account might be required to access some documents.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Ensure your quotation clearly itemizes all costs as requested, including unit price, extended price, shipping, installation, and warranty. Double-check that your total quoted price is comprehensive and covers all aspects for a fully functional system.

Maintain an active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM). This is a mandatory requirement for all awards, from offer submission through final payment. Failure to have a valid SAM registration will make your firm ineligible for an award.

Review all listed FAR and HHSAR clauses and provisions to ensure full compliance with the terms and conditions of this solicitation. Pay close attention to any specific requirements for commercial products and services.