A cell collector and cell collection method are provided for collecting clusters of cells for subsequent analysis of the cells to screen for abnormalities. The cell collector is designed to enhance the capability of the collector to pick-up clusters or clumps of cells, and to facilitate transfer of the collected clusters of cells onto a receiving structure, for example a slide. In one embodiment, a combination of the material of the collector, the texture of the collection surface of the collector, and the use of expansion and rotation of the collector during collection facilitate the collection of the clusters of cells.