Multiplex PCR System for Biomedical Microbiology Research

Eastern Kentucky University is seeking bids for a fully integrated multiplex PCR platform to support biomedical microbiology research, teaching, and rapid syndromic testing in both research and public‑health laboratory settings. The instrument must run at least four samples simultaneously, provide kits covering 40+ targets (including bacterial, yeast, and antimicrobial‑resistance genes) with results in roughly one hour, and be documented in the scientific literature. The university also requires an annual maintenance service agreement and is open to approved equivalent systems (e.g., BioFire FilmArray TORCH). Funding is contingent on NIH/NSF grant awards, and the purchase would not occur before April 15 2027. Bidders must be registered in EKU’s Jaggaer procurement system and submit a sealed bid by June 23 2026. • Required capabilities: ≥4‑sample throughput, ≥40‑target panel (20 bacteria, 5 yeast, 10 resistance genes), ≤1 hour time‑to‑result. • Desired platform example: BioFire FilmArray TORCH (TORCH 4 or larger) or equivalent. • Additional requirements: Documentation of use in peer‑reviewed literature, optional five‑year service contract, and compliance with university procurement forms. • Funding condition: Purchase only if NIH Instrumentation Grant (RLI‑S10) and/or NSF Major Research Instrumentation award is received. • Submission details: Sealed bid due June 23 2026 2:00 PM EDT; questions due June 16 2026 4:00 PM ET; primary contact Stephanie Sowders.