Research, Scientific, and Medical (RSM) purchases are essential to UMass’s mission as a leading research institution.
We are excited to announce that the Phase 1 contract for the RSM Lab Supplies Initiative has been awarded to Fisher Scientific. We estimate that Phase 1 will result in a 10% reduction in laboratory supply costs across the UMass system.
This initiative showcases how a collaborative approach to purchasing and supplier engagement can create significant value while supporting the University's commitment to teaching, research, and the community.
The completion of Phase 1 marks an important milestone, but it is only the beginning. Future phases will focus on technology-enabled solutions and additional sourcing opportunities that continue to drive efficiency, value, and service improvements across the University.
To learn more about this recent development and what comes next, read our article You Spoke, We Delivered: 10% Lab Supply Savings through New Contract with Fisher Scientific (August 5, 2026).
Background Information
What is RSM?
RSM stands for Research, Scientific, and Medical. It refers to a purchasing initiative aimed at strategically rebidding UMass’s lab supply contract across all campuses. This initiative focuses on improving pricing, expanding access to suppliers, and promoting consistent use of these resources throughout the university.
What's Included?
- Research & Lab Consumables: Reagents, labware, test kits, PPE, misc. other
- Medical Consumables: Nursing and Medical supplies
- Small equipment purchases (< $5K in value): Calibration and test equipment, meters, scopes, et al.
- On-site Lab “Supermarkets”: On-site inventory and Amherst and Chan Medical for quick shopping
Why Now?
- $16M+ targeted annual spend
- Existing contract expires June 30, 2026
- 10+ years since last standalone UMass bid
- Market has evolved with new suppliers and increased competition
Recent Updates
You Spoke, We Delivered: 10% Lab Supply Savings through New Contract with Fisher Scientific
August 4, 2026
Your feedback shaped this outcome. Phase 1 of the RSM Lab Supplies Initiative cuts system-wide lab supply costs through our newly awarded contract with Fisher Scientific by 10%, and UPST believes individual labs can save even more. Learn more to optimize your lab's purchasing strategy.
Coffee Hour: A Discussion with the UPST Strategic Sourcing Team
June 18, 2026
The UMPO Administration and Finance (A&F) Coffee Hour is hosted by the University of Massachusetts President’s Office A&F organization. These system-wide sessions provide our campus stakeholders the opportunity to gather new and operational information on procurement, travel, business expenses, treasury, and other A&F-related activities.
Smarter Lab Buying through Collaboration with Our Research Community
April 6, 2026
Researchers and labs told us what they need: better value, easier buying, and more choices. UPST is partnering with our research community on how we source lab supplies. Here's what's happening.
To Learn More
More information about the Research, Scientific and Medical (RSM) Purchases Initiative will be available soon, so check back often for updates. For questions, please reach out to A&Fsupport@umassp.edu.
Bid Committee Members
Project Lead: Bill Mannix, UPST Category Manager
- Amherst: Laura Vandenberg & Vicki Hubby
- Boston: Serena Wang
- Dartmouth: Doug Marshall
- Lowell: Mingli Hou
- Chan Medical School: Melvin Chan and Mike Lee
- President's Office: Gabriela Weaver