The present invention includes an apparatus that holds the probes to a solid support throughout the passages of the functionalization process, thus avoiding user-dependent breakage or damage of the fragile AFM cantilevers. The apparatus allows the tips of the AFM probes to be placed face-down, which avoids the deposition of contaminants on their functional side. The device also allows functionalizing the tips with small liquid volumes and cleaning. The present invention includes a functionalization process preventing non-specific adsorption of molecules on the tip.