A fixture and method is provided for in vitro storage of a cornea. The fixture includes a platform having a corneal-sceral rim receiving surface, a clamp having a mating surface for the cornel-scleral rim and handles. A locking mechanism is provided to secure a donor cornea between the clamp and platform. The combination cornea, platform and clamp are placed in a storage unit having a fluid preservation media. In one embodiment, the storage unit includes a vial having an optically clear closed end and an opened end. A lid is secured to the open end of the vial and engages the handles in order to stabilize the clamped cornea within the vial.