5MM 900 MHz Room Temperature Probe and installation to an existing Bruker NMR System

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) intends to negotiate, on a sole source basis, under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b) (1), with Bruker Biospin Corporation, 15 Fortune Drive, Billerica, MA 01821, for the purchase of a 5mm 900 MHz Room Temperature Probe for an existing Bruker NMR System, needed by the Biomolecular Structure and Function (BSF) group in the Biomolecular Measurement Division of the Materials Measurement Laboratory at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

The Biomolecular Structure and Function (BSF) group in the Biomolecular Measurement Division of the Materials Measurement Laboratory at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) (1) advances novel measurement methods and models for the determination and analysis of the structure and function of biological macromolecules, including lipids, DNA, RNA, and proteins and macromolecular complexes and assemblies formed by these molecules; (2) advances methods to determine the physical and chemical factors which determine the specific interactions of macromolecules with cofactors and ligands; (3) studies the relationships between biomolecule structure, dynamics, function, and energetics using computational, biophysical and biochemical techniques; (4) develops reference databases for these properties; and (5) advances measurement methods for engineering complex biological systems.

In support of this mission, the BSF group needs a back-up room temperature probe for its aging 900MHz Bruker NMR system. The primary probe is currently underperforming, and 50% downtime occurred in FY25. 25% downtime is projected for the future due to ongoing maintenance issues. To maximize available measurement time, a room temperature probe is critical  to maintain world-class measurement capabilities in support of the biomanufacturing program.

Sole source determination is based on the need to purchase the Room temperature TXI probe needs to be fully compatible with the existing Bruker 900 MHz AVANCE III NMR system, currently operational at NIST-IBBR in Rockville, MD. The probe must also be able to be controlled by the Bruker Topspin 3.7 software.

Bruker Biospin Corporation is the only known vendor capable in providing the required probe and installation.

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition is 334516, Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing, with a size standard of 1,000 employees. 

A determination by the Government not to complete with the proposed acquisition based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government.  Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.

No solicitation package will be issued.  This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotations.  However, responses received by June 10, 2026, 8:00 am, ET will be considered by the Government.