a greatly simplified improved vacuum filter funnel consists of two pieces , namely an upper reservoir member and a lower spout member . the upper reservoir member has an annular ring downwardly extending from the bottom thereof which fits inside an annular rim upwardly extending from the top of the lower spout member . a filter disk rests on an integral grid at the top of the lower spout member and is held in place between the upper and lower members by solely the weight of the upper member . the filter disk is readily removed after simply lifting up the upper reservoir member . both the reservoir and spout members are preferably constructed of a chemical and heat resistant organic plastic , for example polysulfone , so that the parts may be sterilized in an autoclave .