An automated system for releasing cell rafts from a microwell array , the system comprising: a computer system comprising at least one processor and memory ; an imaging device configured for obtaining images of a microwell array, the microwell array comprising a plurality of cell rafts ; an actuator controlled by the at least one processor for 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; identify, by analyzing the one or more images of the microwell array, a selected cell raft from among the plurality of cell rafts, wherein identifying the selected cell raft comprises counting, for each cell raft, a number of cells depicted in a sub-image of the cell raft and identifying at least one cell raft bearing a single isolated cell; and control the actuator to release the selected cell raft from the microwell array; and a linear actuator configured to move a magnetic wand to collect the selected cell raft; and an automated stage to hold a collection plate to receive the selected cell raft from the magnetic wand , wherein the automated stage is a motorized stage configured to move the collection plate for receipt of the selected cell raft; and wherein the collection plate includes a collection magnet positioned underneath, the collection magnet having a polarization opposite that of the magnetic wand to repel a magnet in the magnetic wand and pull the selected cell raft to a bottom of the collection plate . a computer system comprising at least one processor and memory ; an imaging device configured for obtaining images of a microwell array, the microwell array comprising a plurality of cell rafts ; an actuator controlled by the at least one processor for 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; identify, by analyzing the one or more images of the microwell array, a selected cell raft from among the plurality of cell rafts, wherein identifying the selected cell raft comprises counting, for each cell raft, a number of cells depicted in a sub-image of the cell raft and identifying at least one cell raft bearing a single isolated cell; and control the actuator to release the selected cell raft from the microwell array; and obtain one or more images of the microwell array using the imaging device; identify, by analyzing the one or more images of the microwell array, a selected cell raft from among the plurality of cell rafts, wherein identifying the selected cell raft comprises counting, for each cell raft, a number of cells depicted in a sub-image of the cell raft and identifying at least one cell raft bearing a single isolated cell; and control the actuator to release the selected cell raft from the microwell array; and a linear actuator configured to move a magnetic wand to collect the selected cell raft; and an automated stage to hold a collection plate to receive the selected cell raft from the magnetic wand , wherein the automated stage is a motorized stage configured to move the collection plate for receipt of the selected cell raft; and wherein the collection plate includes a collection magnet positioned underneath, the collection magnet having a polarization opposite that of the magnetic wand to repel a magnet in the magnetic wand and pull the selected cell raft to a bottom of the collection plate . <EOS>