Abstract: A microscope slide module for processing samples captured in gasketed compartments of slide assemblies which include gasket slides. The microscope slide module includes a baseplate having a number of recesses for holding the gasket slides in fixed position, a coverplate which attaches to the baseplate, such that slide assemblies including gasket slides are captured and slightly compressed between the baseplate and the coverplate. Fasteners attach the coverplate to the baseplate, and the baseplate and coverplate each include apertures which align with the gasketed compartments of the gasket slides. Also disclosed are a system and a method for processing laboratory samples.

Abstract: A pipetting head apparatus includes a pipetting system, and a gripper system, and which includes a floating gripper carriage, which is configured to move independently from said pipetting system. The pipetting system and said gripper system are configured to utilize a common motor. In alternative embodiment, a pipetting head apparatus includes a pipetting system, and a stripper assembly. The pipetting system and the stripper assembly are configured to utilize a common motor. In another alternative embodiment, a pipetting head apparatus includes a pipetting system, which includes a stripper assembly, a main carriage assembly, and a gripper assembly, where the stripper assembly and gripper assembly are both configured to move independently from the main carriage assembly. Also a method is disclosed for distributing material samples for laboratory processing.