Embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus and a method for separating particles within a sample. The apparatus includes a reservoir for receiving a biological specimen therein, wherein the specimen includes a plurality of different sized particles in a liquid. At least one physical state of the specimen is capable of being controlled in order to initially separate at least a first type of particles under the influence of gravity. The apparatus also includes a rotatable disk positioned proximate to the reservoir and configured to receive the first type of particles thereon. The disk has holes defined therethrough that are configured to further separate the first type of particles based on particle size. The apparatus includes a mechanism configured to rotate the disk, and at least one collection tube positioned proximate to the disk and configured to receive at least a portion of the first type of particles passing through respective holes defined in the disk and/or around the disk in response to rotation of the disk.