Nine interchangeable aluminum blocks accommodate PCR plates and a variety of common life science vessels. No additional tools are required for block exchanges. The blocks utilize a magnetic adhesion technology and are self-recognized once exchanged. The combination of heating, cooling, and mixing with a versatile block selection makes the Axygen Microtube Shaker ideal for many life science laboratories in the segments of molecular biology, biochemistry, and clinical chemistry. Applications include but are not limited to gene synthesis, gene purification and denaturation, enzymatic reactions, and bacterial growth assays.