Announcement of an Exempt Purchase

A micro-manipulator is a device which is used to physically interact with a sample under a microscope, where a level of precision of movement is necessary that cannot be achieved by the unaided human hand. It may typically consist of an input joystick, a mechanism for reducing the range of movement and an output section with the means of holding a micro-tool to hold, inject, cut or otherwise manipulate the object as required.

This purchase is exempt from the usual selection processes of the Procurement Code because the procurement expenditure is for performing sponsored research and other sponsored activities under grants and contracts funded by the sponsor or by sources other than State appropriations. (30 ILCS 500 / 1-13(b)(8)) We have several grant proposals which requires us to carry out research in which we must use a micro-manipulator inside a glove box. If we do not purchase this item, then we will not be able to carry out the research that we have stated we would perform.