NEW - Upgrade Confocal Raman and IR system/New Imaging Spectrometer

The Food and Drug Administration is forecasting an upcoming procurement to upgrade its existing Confocal Raman and IR system and acquire a new imaging spectrometer, aimed at enhancing analytical capabilities for scientific research and regulatory evaluations. The effort is classified under NAICS code 334516, indicating it pertains to analytical laboratory instrument manufacturing, and is scheduled for release in May 2026. The upgrade will modernize the agency’s spectroscopic analysis infrastructure, enabling higher resolution, faster data acquisition, and improved spatial imaging for complex sample analysis, particularly in pharmaceutical, chemical, and biological applications. Performance of the work is expected to be conducted without a specified location, suggesting flexibility in execution, potentially across FDA facilities or through vendor-provided on-site services. The point of contact for program inquiries is the NCTR Acquisition Liaison, reachable via nctracquisitions@fda.hhs.gov, while the contracting officer position remains to be determined. No set-aside classification has been designated, indicating the opportunity is open to all eligible businesses regardless of size or status. This forecast reflects the FDA’s ongoing investment in advanced analytical technologies to support mission-critical scientific assessments and ensure regulatory standards are met with cutting-edge instrumentation. Vendors and contractors interested in this opportunity should prepare to respond to a formal solicitation expected later in the year, with detailed technical specifications and evaluation criteria to follow.