Research, Scientific, and Medical (RSM) purchases are essential to UMass’s mission as a leading research institution.

To strengthen the University's purchasing of these supplies, Fisher Scientific has been selected as the Prime supplier of Lab Supplies for the UMass system. The new contract is expected to reduce laboratory supply costs by approximately 10% across UMass, while providing a consistent foundation for common lab-supply purchasing. 

UMass and Fisher Scientific Supplier Fair graphic featuring laboratory glassware and a classroom presentation, with text announcing “Strengthening Partnerships” and describing a supplier fair connecting campus leadership with Fisher Scientific resources for managing lab supplies.

Thank you for joining us!

The UMass Unified Procurement Services Team (UPST) and Fisher Scientific recently hosted a lab supply showcase at each UMass campus. Each event was tailored for UMass employees involved in purchasing, managing, or supporting research, scientific, medical, and laboratory supplies. We appreciate everyone who attended to learn more about Fisher Scientific, the new Prime supplier for UMass, the BuyWays punchout catalog, and our product resources. Participants also had the opportunity to ask questions and connect with teams supporting the RSM Lab Supplies Initiative. Thank you! If you missed the event and have questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out. Email A&FSupport@umassp.edu.

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

Resources and Support

To assist you during this transition, we have compiled helpful information and tips. For direct support or inquiries, please contact A&Fsupport@umassp.edu.

Job Aids and FAQs

Email Bulletins

Articles and Systemwide Information Sessions

To Learn More

Additional information will be added periodically, 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