A microfluidic separation system, which comprises a magnetic separator, which itself comprises a magnetic energy source; first and second magnetically conductive members leading from the magnetic energy source and having respective terminal ends that are separated by a gap over which a magnetic field is applied due to the magnetic energy source. The separation system further comprises a microfluidic chip for insertion into the gap, which comprises a body defining channels on respective faces of the body; and an exterior lining that seals the plurality of channels to allow separate test sample volumes to circulate in at least two of the channels. Upon insertion of the chip into the gap, a first test sample volume is confined to circulating closer to the terminal end of the first member and a second test sample volume is confined to circulating closer to the terminal end of the second member.