Open federal opportunities

X-ray imaging detector system

ENERGY, DEPARTMENT OF.ENERGY, DEPARTMENT OF.SLAC Natl Accel Lab -DOE Contractor · Response deadline: Fri, 30 Oct 2026

What the government is buying

The SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory—a Department of Energy contractor-operated facility—is soliciting proposals for an X-ray imaging detector system. X-ray imaging detectors are specialized scientific instruments used to capture and convert X-ray photons into measurable electronic signals, typically for advanced research applications in materials science, biology, chemistry, and physics. At a national laboratory like SLAC, such systems likely support synchrotron-based experiments, free-electron laser research, or other high-energy physics programs requiring precise, high-resolution detection capabilities. The specific technical requirements, performance specifications, and delivery terms for this detector system see the solicitation.

Key facts

Who can bid

This solicitation is full and open competition with no small-business set-aside. Any responsible offeror—large or small business—may submit a proposal. The NAICS code 334517 (Irradiation Apparatus Manufacturing) carries a Small Business Administration size standard of 1,000 employees; see the solicitation. Small businesses below this threshold that are interested should evaluate whether they can compete against larger firms with established detector manufacturing capabilities, or whether they might partner as subcontractors. If your firm manufacturers or integrates X-ray detection hardware, signal processing electronics, or associated control software, you may be eligible. Firms with experience in scientific instrumentation for DOE national labs, synchrotron facilities, or comparable research environments may have relevant past performance.

How to put together a competitive bid

For a complex scientific instrument like an X-ray imaging detector system, proposals typically require demonstrating technical rigor, manufacturing quality, and operational reliability. Consider these elements:

• Technical approach: Detail your detector architecture (e.g., direct vs. indirect conversion, pixel array design, readout electronics), resolution specifications, dynamic range, and frame rate capabilities. SLAC's experimental programs demand high performance; align your proposed solution to stated or inferred research needs.
• Quality assurance and testing: Describe your calibration protocols, radiation hardness testing, and acceptance test procedures. National lab procurements emphasize traceability and reproducibility.
• Past performance: Highlight comparable deliveries to DOE labs, NSF facilities, CERN, or other major research institutions. Include contactable references and performance metrics.
• Supply chain and production plan: Address component sourcing, lead times for specialized materials (e.g., high-purity silicon, ASICs), and risk mitigation for long-lead items.
• Price competitiveness: Without set-aside protections, cost realism matters. Consider teaming with established detector technology firms if your firm lacks scale.
• Small business participation: If bidding as a large business, outline subcontracting plans; see the solicitation for any subcontracting goals.

Next steps

Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using the solicitation number SLAC_369006_Xray_Imaging_Detector_System. The solicitation will contain the statement of work, deliverables schedule, proposal instructions, evaluation criteria, and any amendments. Note the firm response deadline of October 30, 2025 at 5:00 PM Eastern Time—eight days after the posting date of October 23, 2025. Given the short turnaround, prioritize understanding mandatory pass/fail requirements and pricing structure immediately upon accessing the document.

View the official notice on SAM.gov →