An apparatus is provided for simultaneous processing of multiple fluid
samples. The apparatus comprises a multiple well plate for holding a
plurality of sample reservoirs for simultaneous processing of multiple
samples. The wells are configured in the plate in staggered rows. The
well plate is dimensioned to be compatible with a vacuum manifold or
positive pressure system either as a stand-alone unit or in conjunction
with a separate fluid handling system. The apparatus may further comprise
a sample collection plate having the same number of wells as the multiple
well plate. The wells in the samples collection plate are arranged in the
same staggered configuration as the wells in the well plate and are sized
for holding sample collection vials. When the well plate and sample
collection plate are assembled in a manifold, the vials in the sample
collection plated are aligned directly beneath the sample exits of
corresponding sample reservoirs in the well plate.