Clinical embryologist : Job description

Clinical embryologists investigate the various aspects of infertility. They perform routine diagnostic services and therapeutic embryological procedures, such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF), at hospitals and clinics. They communicate with patients about specific treatment options regarding fertility and research infertility solutions together with other medical, nursing, counselling and administrative staff.

In order to do the job well, clinical embryologists need a practical and theoretical understanding of human reproductive biology, embryology, infertility, assisted reproductive technology (ART) as well as current regulations and legislation involving these subjects. The overall goal of a clinical embryologist is to aid individuals in reproduction and achieve a pregnancy.

Embryology is a rapidly developing field which has seen enormous growth in the last 20 years. It is anticipated that it will continue to expand and more educated clinical embryologists will be needed as a result.

Typical work activities

Typical work activities include:

• determination of fertility levels of individuals;
• collection of eggs and sperm (gametes) from patients for processing;
• maintaining viability of gametes, tissues and embryos during processing;
• micromanipulation and testing of suitability of each gamete;
• preparation of gametes and the environment for in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and facilitation of fertilisation;
• using assisted reproductive technologies (ART) to help with infertility;
• preservation of gametes and embryos for future use;
• embryo culture and cryopreservation;
• monitoring of embryo development;
• embryo selection for transfer to recipient women, research or other intended use and the implantation of embryos into reproductive organs;
• monitoring and maintaining cryobanks;
• maintaining an understanding of human reproductive biology, embryology, infertility and assisted reproductive technology;
• having knowledge of and complying with quality control, ethical issues, and regulations surrounding gamete and embryo handling;
• care and maintenance of equipment;
• record keeping.