Inactive

BACKGROUND The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) is one of the nation’s premier research institutions in clinical research in muscle, skin, bone, and rheuma... BACKGROUND The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) is one of the nation’s premier research institutions in clinical research in muscle, skin, bone, and rheumatic diseases. The mission of the NIAMS Flow Cytometry Section (FCS) is to provide NIAMS scientists and collaborators access to state-of-the-art flow cytometry equipment and to offer training and assistance at all stages of the acquisition and analysis of flow cytometry data. Presently, the FCS operates and maintains three flow cytometry cell sorters and five analyzers to support the NIAMS mission. The FCS provides support 7 days per week to approximately 110 users as well as cell sorting services Monday through Friday. To support its ever-expanding research program, NIAMS procured a Special Order LSR Fortessa System Flow Cytometer with HTS (High Throughput Sampler) in 2011 (POTS 11-005168/Req 2181198). This analyzer, equipped with 7 lasers and 20 (18 + 3 switchable) fluorescence detectors plus forward and side scatter, allows for optimal excitation of the various fluorochromes used by NIAMS investigators. This Fortessa’s ability to use all lasers simultaneously and independently adjust the power levels are especially important to accommodate a variety of projects using the most advanced fluorochromes and techniques. The HTS unit enables users to screen samples more efficiently using 96- and 384-well plates for acquisition allowing the Fortessa to be available for more users daily. Due to the custom-design, complexity of the detection system and sensitivity of the multiple facets of this instrument: laser systems, photodetectors, optics, fluidics, computer workstation and software, an annual service contract provided by highly skilled, certified, and factory trained engineers is required. To maintain this expensive and sophisticated instrument in peak condition, ensure optimal function and maintain reliable operation, the facility requires a service that includes access to the original parts, and software. Currently, this flow cytometer system is under a maintenance contract with Becton Dickinson (HHSN268201700267A), which expires on 08/16/2022. The Fortessa reliably continues to be the most utilized research flow cytometer supported by the NIAMS FCS on which numerous human clinical discovery projects depend. A new contract is needed to avoid delays to daily operations impacting the NIAMS research, and to assure reliable, uninterrupted operation of the 7-laser BD LSR Fortessa Special Order System with HTS – an advanced analysis platform integral to achieving the NIAMS mission. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this requirement is to procure a maintenance contract for BD Biosciences (BDB) LSR Fortessa Special Order System Flow Cytometer Analyzer (SN: H64717700017) with HTS (SN: U64770160337) operated by the NIAMS Flow Cytometry Section in the Office of Science and Technology. The contractor shall be an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Authorized Service Provider of the BD Biosciences LSR Fortessa Special Order System flow cytometer analyzer with HTS, and all services shall be performed by OEM certified factory-trained technicians using genuine OEM parts. SCOPE The contractor shall provide a service maintenance agreement on the LSR Fortessa Special Order System flow cytometer analyzer, its 7 lasers, the HTS unit and one Computer Workstation (excluding printers) for labor, travel expenses and parts (excluding consumables). Coverage from Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (EST) must include two (2) preventive maintenance visits, 48-hour guaranteed response, unlimited telephone support, labor cost, manufacturer parts plus shipping and software updates.