Imo "optimal" isn't as important as plain consistency. Just have them pick a tube/method and stick with it, and then assume random hemolysis, and be sure on your end you are thawing and aliquoting the same way, always fearful of "the blob". (👀 @mattwfoster.bsky.social)

We usually just thaw at room temp on a thermomixer and then keep cold while aliquoting. Most of the damage has been done before you got the sample. What kind of QC are you doing?

Or maybe a better question , is there a bad way to thaw and aliquot? I assume microwaving dethawing is bad ;)

Is there an "optimal" was to thaw and aliquot?