A device for the cryopreservation and/or vitrification of a biological sample in a freezing medium is described. The device preferably comprises a bath for receiving a vessel containing a biological sample in liquid-phase nitrogen. In one example, the bath includes a first member extending generally vertically from a bottom wall portion which divides the interior chamber of the bath into a first sub-chamber adapted for receiving a volume of cryogenic freezing medium and a second or overflow sub-chamber adapted to receive freezing medium from the first sub-chamber. A second member extends generally horizontally between the sidewall portions of the bath and includes at least one opening for receiving a biological sample-containing vessel(s). A kit including a cryogenic storage device and a vessel is also described.
