Automated sample handling instrumentation, systems, processes, and methods

A method of processing a biological sample, the method comprising:

• A providing an input rack to a sample processing instrument, the input rack holding a sample container and a reaction vessel, the shape of the sample container differing from the shape of the reaction vessel in at least one of height and diameter;
• B after A, moving the sample container and the reaction vessel from the input rack to a sample processing station contained within the sample processing instrument;
• C at the sample processing station, transferring an amount of a biological sample from the sample container to the reaction vessel;
• D after C, moving the sample container from the sample processing station to the input rack and the reaction vessel from the sample processing station to an output rack contained within the sample processing instrument.