an apparatus for automated examination of biological material includes a microscope with a cross table with the biological material being arranged on the cross table between an object slide or an analysis plate and a cover ; a light source ; an evaluation unit ; a device for automatic focusing ; an image recording unit for recording an image of the biological material enlarged via of an object lens of the microscope and for transferring the image to the evaluation unit ; and a biochip . labeling is provided on a surface of the biochip . focusing is executable by targeted movement of the cross table based on detection of the labeling , and a target interval is determinable by determination of a location and / or a position of the labeling , within which focusing of the biological material takes place .