Summary
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) published a combined sources-sought notice and notice of intent to award a sole-source contract for an automated inverted microscope to support its Organ-on-a-Chip / Microphysiological Systems program. NIST seeks an automated, high‑throughput inverted microscope with live‑cell incubation capability, compatibility with existing Zeiss microscopes, multi‑mode imaging (brightfield, widefield fluorescence, phase contrast), motorized stages and high automation for continuous imaging over hours to days; Attachment 1 (minimum technical specifications) is referenced in the notice. Responses to this market-research notice are due Jul 28, 2026 at 10:00 AM EDT and NIST may pursue a competitive acquisition if alternative sources are identified.