Spectrophotometer with Microdrop Capability

The Medical Research Council of South Africa (SAMRC), on behalf of the Centre for Bioprocess Engineering Research (CBER) in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Cape Town, is seeking suppliers to deliver a spectrophotometer with microdrop capability. The equipment is required under the DSTI/KfW/SAMRC Support of Development and Production of Vaccines in South Africa Project, and will support laboratory-scale bioprocess research and analytical work related to vaccine development and production. The item is listed as a single line item (quantity one), with delivery to the university campus.

The tender is administered through the National Treasury eTender portal and the Supplier Portal, and it is subject to the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act (PPPFA) with a 80/20 or 90/10 preference point system depending on the rand value. Mandatory eligibility requirements include National Treasury Central Supplier Database (CSD) registration, tax compliance at the time of award, a valid B-BBEE status level certificate or sworn affidavit, a company profile demonstrating experience in supplying similar equipment, and written proof of authority from the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to sell, distribute and support the product. Bidders must also complete the Standard Bidding Documents (SBD) forms, declarations of interest, a Bidder's Disclosure, and the POPIA consent form. Clarification questions are to be submitted through the Supplier Portal before the stated deadline, and bids must be submitted online by the closing date.

For the buyer, the procurement secures specialised laboratory instrumentation that supports rigorous, traceable research within a national vaccine development initiative, with the value of a reliable local supplier relationship including installation, training and after-sales support. Suppliers should pay close attention to the technical specification, the OEM authorisation requirement, and the preference point scoring, as incomplete documentation may result in disqualification. Tender closes 13 November 2026.