Automated collection of a specified number of cells

An automated system comprising:

• a computer system comprising at least one processor and memory;
• an imaging device, comprising at least one imaging sensor, configured to obtain images of a microwell array, the microwell array comprising a plurality of cell rafts;
• and
• an actuator configured to be controlled by the at least one processor, the actuator comprising a linear actuator or an autofocus motor of the imaging device, the linear actuator or the autofocus motor being configured to release cell rafts from the microwell array by actuating a release probe configured for individually releasing cell rafts from the microwell array;
• wherein the automated system is configured for automated imaging and cell release, including the at least one processor being configured to:
• obtain one or more images of the microwell array using the imaging device;
• analyze the one or more images of the microwell array to identify a selected cell raft from among the plurality of cell rafts, wherein identifying the selected cell raft includes the at least one processor being further configured to count, for each cell raft, a number of cells depicted in a sub-image of the cell raft and identify at least one cell raft bearing a single isolated cell;
• and
• control the actuator to release the selected cell raft from the microwell array.