A system (10) for transporting and processing a specimen, and an assembly employing that system. The transporting and processing system comprises a tubular container (18) having a filter assembly (24) removably secured within the container (18) by a threaded collar (32). A cap (46) is applied to the collar (32), and a spoon (50) is secured to the underside of the cap for collecting a specimen and inserting it within the filter (24) contained within the container (18). The spoon (50) is shaped to fit within the filter (24) when the cap (46) is applied. In the assembly, the specimen transporting and processing system (10) is utilized along with a separate container (14) having a spoon assembly (50) and cap (46), but no filter assembly (24). A stand (16) is provided for retaining both containers.