Interest in developing research reactor programmes has grown significantly in recent years. Currently, a significant number of Member States are in different stages of new research reactor projects. The majority of them are building their first research reactor as a key national installation for the development of their nuclear science and technology programmes. In this context, this publication has been developed to assist Member States in the preparation of the technical requirements for the bidding process for a new research reactor. The publication addresses the preparation phase of the bidding process and discusses criteria that may be used in the evaluation of the bids. The guidance applies to all reactor types and technologies and it does not recommend a specific reactor type or technology or a specific design. However, it is assumed that the publication will be used by a Member State that has made a commitment to build a safe, sustainable, robust design and easily maintainable research reactor. The guidance provided in the publication is primarily oriented to Member States building their first research reactor; however, such guidance could also be useful for the bidding process for subsequent reactors.