The University has a need to purchase a spectrometer console and probe to work with its existing 500-MHz Oxford 89-mm wide bore magnet. This is needed to perform NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) chemical research, including measurement and anlaysis of solid state samples (samples that do not dissolve in a solvent). The end result of this will be improved NMR functionality in the area of ssNMR, which is vital to the future of much research. The university, on information and belief, has concluded that only one vendor can meet its need or can meet the need economically. That vendor is Bruker Corporation. The university has provided detailed justification to support its conclusion as shown on the attached Sole Source Justification Form. Although the university has presented this as a sole source procurement, we are seeking competitive information from firms with the capability of meeting the university's need (even if performed in a manner different from what has been presented) to contact us and provide sufficient information to show the need can be met. If we receive that information, the Chief Procurement Officer will offer a public hearing to consider the matter. Hearing information is described below.

The University has determined that this purchase is only economically available from this source because the items are required for research and no other source is able to meet the researcher's documented needs. Compatibility of equipment, accessories, replacement parts, or service is also a paramount consideration.