Illustrative embodiments of automated sample workcells and methods of operation are disclosed. The methods may include receiving a first plurality of samples, each of the first plurality of samples being linked to a requested analysis selected from among a plurality of analysis types; assigning at least one centrifugation parameter to each of the first plurality of samples in response to the requested analysis linked to that sample; loading a second plurality of samples into a centrifuge, the second plurality of samples being selected from among the first plurality of samples and comprising samples that have been assigned at least two different centrifugation parameters; determining a centrifugation parameter of highest centrifugation intensity from among the at least two different centrifugation parameters assigned to samples in the second plurality of samples; and centrifuging the second plurality of samples according to a centrifugation protocol comprising the centrifugation parameter of highest centrifugation intensity.