McLane Research Labs Imaging Flow Cytobot (IFCB)

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) intends to negotiate and award a purchase order on a sole source basis to McLane Research Laboratories Inc. for an Imaging Flow Cytobot (IFCB) and accessories. The IFCB is a submersible, flow-through imaging system for the automated, real-time collection of high-resolution images of phytoplankton and other particles in the water column. The primary application is continuous monitoring of coastal waters for harmful algal blooms (HABS) and detailed assessment of plankton community structure to support federal research and HAB forecasting and monitoring mandates. Some key points about this opportunity include: • The IFCB is a unique piece of equipment with no authorized partners or resellers. • McLane Research Laboratories Inc. is the only manufacturer of the IFCB in the United States. • The IFCB can collect near real-time data for HAB, operating at a much faster rate than individual plankton sampling and identification. • Delivery is expected within 12 months from the date of award.