Scope
Reference
250075
Description
The imaging equipment in the Biological Services Unit (BSU) is no longer fit for purpose.
Therefore, the department requires to purchase an In Vivo Optical Imaging System.
The equipment will serve multiple users, open to anyone with permissions to conduct such regulated work and support for multi-spectral luminescence/fluorescence imaging capability at QUB.
In vivo imaging is leading edge in animal research, aligning with commitment to 3Rs and QUB priorities in delivering research excellence.
• Please note: - The execution of this tender & contract will be solely dependent on grant funding being received, which is estimated to be confirmed in November 2025.
• No award will be made, or orders issued until the grant funding has been confirmed. If grant funding is not secured, the market will be notified, and this procurement exercise will be stood down.
Total value (estimated)
- £849,475 excluding VAT
- £1,019,370 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 20 December 2025 to 20 December 2035
- Possible extension to 20 December 2040
- 15 years, 1 day
Description of possible extension:
option to extend maintenance, software updates/ development and consumables, beyond this period for a further period of up to 10 years or the end of useful life of the equipment.
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 38000000 - Laboratory, optical and precision equipments (excl. glasses)
- 38636000 - Specialist optical instruments
Contract locations
- UKN06 - Belfast
Submission
Tender submission deadline
7 November 2025, 4:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
15 December 2025
Award criteria
| Name | Description | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Simple description | Mandatory Requirements - Pass/Fail Desirable Technical Requirements - 10% Qualitative Requirements - 25% Sustainable Procurement - 10% Price - 55% |
Price |
Weighting description
Mandatory Requirements - Pass/Fail
Desirable Technical Requirements - 10%
Qualitative Requirements - 25%
Sustainable Procurement - 10%
Price - 55%
Other information
Payment terms
30 days after delivery on receipt of a valid and undisputed invoice.
Description of risks to contract performance
The contracting authority recognises that certain risks associated with the procurement and operation of an In Vivo Optical Imaging System are not fully quantifiable at the time of tender. These 'known unknowns' include, but are not limited to, technology evolution, integration challenges, supply chain disruptions, software lifecycle changes, increased value or scope due to demand requirements, regulatory shifts, data security concerns and operational continuity risks. Suppliers are expected to identify any foreseeable risks, propose mitigation strategies, and demonstrate flexibility in addressing emerging issues throughout the contract lifecycle. Whilst it is not possible at this stage to fully anticipate the nature or extent of future requirements, nor to determine their potential impact on contract performance, QUB recognises that such changes may arise over the course of the contract. Accordingly, it is acknowledged that these circumstances may necessitate a modification of the contract to appropriately address and accommodate any emerging risks or requirements.
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Open procedure
Documents
Associated tender documents
https://in-tendhost.co.uk/queensuniversitybelfast/aspx/Home
Tender documents for Contract for supply, Delivery, Installation, commissioning and Maintenance of an In vivo Optical Imaging System can be accessed free of charge through https://in-tendhost.co.uk/queensuniversitybelfast/aspx/Home
Contracting authority
Queen's University Belfast
- Charity Commission for Northern Ireland: 101788
University Rd
Belfast
BT7 1NN
United Kingdom
Email: procurement@qub.ac.uk
Region: UKN06 - Belfast
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government
Devolved regulations that apply: Northern Ireland