Automated Droplet Generator and Droplet Reader Equipment for the use in the manufacture of gene therapy drugs/treatment for research and development, education/teaching and training

Tender description

The University of Sheffield (UoS) is establishing a new 'Gene Therapy Innovation Manufacturing Centre' (GTIMC) to advance scientific discoveries into life-changing treatments for patients with life threatening diseases. The Sheffield GTIMC will be one of three cutting edge hubs in the UK dedicated to advancing the clinical development of new genetic treatments. This facility is due to open in the Summer of 2022 and further details can be found at the following link:- https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/news/new-gene-therapy-innovation-centre-advance-scientific-discoveries-life-changing-treatments. The UoS requires an Automated Droplet Generator and Droplet Reader in order to undertake this co-ordinated work in parallel to other UK site - NHS Blood and Transplant (Bristol) working on identical methods and processes. To ensure the consistency of the science and comparability of the process development and results, the same equipment needs to be purchased as the other hub at NHSBT. GTIMC and NHSBT Hubs will use the same manufacturing platform being tech transferred from Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult. Lot 1: In order to assist with the tech transfer from Catapult the following item is being purchased asap: 1 x QX200 AutoDG ddPCR System AutoDG Droplet Digital PCR System for EvaGreen or probe-based digital PCR applications, includes Automated Droplet Generator, QX200 Droplet Reader, laptop computer, and QuantaSoft Software, Plate Sealer, Modular thermal cycler platform, plus other ancillary items/optional extras/ consumables. Between 2022 and 2027 the following items may be purchased:- 1 x QX200 AutoDG ddPCR System AutoDG Droplet Digital PCR System for EvaGreen or probe-based digital PCR applications, includes Automated Droplet Generator, QX200 Droplet Reader, laptop computer, and QuantaSoft Software, Plate Sealer, Modular thermal cycler platform, plus other ancillary items/optional extras/ consumables. The above equipment will be used to furnish one research and development lab and one clean room. Installation, commissioning, consumables, training and annual support/maintenance/calibration may be incorporated for between 3 and 5 years as part of the purchase.