Abstract: An apparatus for holding laboratory tubes while in use, or while the tubes are being stored. The apparatus comprises a thermally conductive tube holding element disposed within an insulating member and a cooling element. The apparatus is capable of holding a large number of laboratory tubes and keeping them at a cool temperature for extended periods of time on a laboratory workbench. The apparatus is also useful for storing a large number of temperature-sensitive samples in laboratory tubes in a freezer, to protect the samples in case of freezer failure.