A pipette nozzle that achieves a consistently high quality seal between the nozzle and the interior surface of a replaceable pipette tip is provided. In one aspect, the end portion of the nozzle is tapered. The tapered nozzle aids pipette tip engagement in an automated system by relaxing the tolerance on the co-location of the pipette tip and the syringe nozzle. Additionally, the tapered end portion promotes tip sealing. In another aspect of the invention, a small ridge is located on the tapered portion of the nozzle. The ridge forms a seal with the interior surface of the pipette tip. The ridge, in combination with the tapered portions of the nozzle located on either side of the ridge, create three separate interface regions.