Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for automatically performing chemical, biochemical and biological analyses using the apparatus. The apparatus comprises: a plurality of subsystems for each performing different operations on microtiter plates; a transporting subsystem for automated movement of microtiter plates in three directions X, Y and Z in order to transport plates from one subsystem to another subsystem within the apparatus; a liquid handler comprising at least two liquid handling probes, wherein said liquid handler is integrated in the transporting subsystem; an insertion/removal subsystem for inserting, removing and storing microtiter plates and equipment for sampling and dilution operations, wherein said insertion/removal subsystem is mechanically operated, without the need for electrical components implemented in that subsystem.