Bid guide
How to bid on NMR system modernization for NIST
What NIST is buying and why it matters
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking information from companies that can modernize its 600MHz and 900 MHz Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) systems. This involves upgrading consoles, cryoplatforms, and probes.
The goal is to ensure the new components can interface directly with existing Bruker NMR systems and be controlled by Bruker-specific software, Topspin 5.0 or greater. This modernization is crucial for NIST to maintain its measurement capabilities for the biomanufacturing program, as current system components are no longer supported.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This is a Sources Sought Notice, published on July 09, 2026. Responses are due by August 07, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET. All responses must be emailed to [email protected] by this deadline.
NIST anticipates issuing a Request for Quotation (RFQ) in the third quarter of fiscal year 2026 and awarding a contract no later than the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2026. This notice is for planning purposes only and is not a solicitation for proposals or quotes.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for firms specializing in analytical laboratory instrument manufacturing, particularly those with expertise in NMR system components and upgrades. The NAICS code for this effort is 334516, Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing, with a small business size standard of 1,000 employees.
NIST is interested in responses from all responsible sources, including both large and small businesses, that can provide the specified modernization services and equipment compatible with Bruker NMR systems.
How to respond to this notice
To respond, email a written response describing your company's abilities to [email protected]. Your response should include your company's name, address, UEID, CAGE code, and point of contact information.
Also include any small business certifications, a description of your company's capabilities and previous experience related to the product, and whether your products are available via GSA Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) contracts, Government-wide Acquisition Contracts (GWACs), or other government-wide contract vehicles, along with contract numbers if applicable. You may also include information regarding a potential trade-in process for existing equipment. Responses are limited to twelve pages, in MS Word format, using Times New Roman 11 Point Font on 8½-inch x 11-inch pages with at least one-inch margins.
Practical tips for a competitive response
Clearly demonstrate your firm's technical expertise with Bruker NMR systems, specifically how your proposed upgrades will integrate with the existing 600MHz and 900 MHz magnets and Topspin 5.0 or greater software. Provide concrete examples of past projects where you successfully modernized similar complex scientific instrumentation.
Ensure your response directly addresses all requested information, including your company's size classification and socio-economic status. Since this is a Sources Sought Notice, focus on showcasing your capabilities and experience to help NIST understand the market and your firm's potential as a future vendor.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from National Institute of Standards and Technology; the original posting controls.