A laboratory stand for a microplate comprises a base (2), at least one post (3, 4) extending upwardly from the base, a shelf (5) located above the base and supported by the at least one post, and means for adjusting the height of the shelf in relation to the base. The shelf (5) comprises a rear portion (9) which is substantially horizontal and a front portion (10), which is inclined downwards away from the horizontal, which is adapted to retain at least one microplate. The laboratory stand improves pipetting ergonomics.