Vertical gel slab electrophoresis apparatus

A vertical gel slab electrophoresis apparatus is disclosed comprised of a vertically oriented gel slab arranged between upper and lower buffer solution reservoirs. A bifurcated movable lower tray contains both an upper buffer reservoir drain and lower buffer reservoir. Both upper and lower buffer reservoirs are provided with hinged covers which act as electrical interlocks to prevent unsafe operation of the apparatus, as well as prevent spillage of buffer solution. The design overcomes safety problems associated with both electrical shock and radioactive chemical contamination. The apparatus is provided with handles for each relocation. Cooling vents are provided for ambient air cooling of the apparatus. A gel mold experiment can be assembled and disassembled with unusual ease with the aid of unique self-locking clamp assemblies.