World Embryologist Day 2024
World Embryologist Day is celebrated every year to celebrate the birthday of the world's first IVF baby Louise Joy Brown. Louise Joy Brown was born on July 25, 1978.
We are grateful for the embryologists who pioneered fertility treatments as we know them and all the incredible embryologists we are honoured to work with in our labs. Without the dedication and passion of embryologists, what we do would not be possible. These brilliant minds work tirelessly behind the scenes, bringing hope and joy to countless couples on their journey to parenthood. We take great pride in the dedicated team of embryologists who play a pivotal role in making dreams come true.
Hear from some of our embryologists
What inspired you to go into embryology?
"My inspiration to pursue embryology came from a combination of academic interest and personal experience. During my studies in Genetics and Cell Biology at Dublin City University, I became fascinated by the complexity and precision involved in early human development. This interest grew during my time at Sims IVF Clonskeagh, where I witnessed first-hand the impact embryology has on helping individuals and couples build their families. The opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful and transformative field motivated me to specialize in embryology and pursue a career dedicated to helping people and building families." - Amy, from Kildare, works in our Clonskeagh Clinic.
"To help people achieve their dream of becoming parents." - Mon, from Spain, works in our Swords Clinic.
“It just seemed extremely cool that this job even existed. I enjoy helping people and this seemed like such a lovely way to positively impact people’s lives.” - Hannah, from Dublin, works in our Clonskeagh Clinic.
"It was the best or luckiest 'accident' that ever happened to me. I thought that I applied for a medical lab, but at the interview, I found out that it was actually an embryologist position. I got the job and fell in love the very first day with embryology." -Hajnalka, from Romania, works in our Swords Clinic.
"The possibility that we can help couples become parents...each day we learn something new, it isn't a boring job." - Neusa, from Portugal, works in our Cork Clinic.
"My undergrad degree had 2 semesters of embryonic development (from fertilisation to birth) and I was hooked. I wanted to be a part of that! So the choice was either an embryologist or an obstetrician or a midwife. I chose to become an embryologist because it allows me to be involved at the very beginning - to be present and responsible for the beginning of a new person is a very humbling, gratifying and privileged place to be." - Mandy, from Australia, works in our Swords Clinic.
What is your favourite part of your job or why do you like being an embryologist?
"The field of embryology is a very dynamic field of science, constantly evolving with new discoveries and technologies. Working in clinical embryology allows me to directly impact patients' lives by assisting in the creation of families." - Ogun, from Croatia, works in our Clonskeagh Clinic.
"My favourite part of my job is to hear patient's good news and see cute baby photos in emails" - Olena, from Ukraine, works in our Clonskeagh Clinic.
“I love talking to patients and helping them understand the process because it can be so overwhelming going through treatment so sometimes a quick chat can make all the difference. We are always happy to answer any questions they have. It’s also really cool coming in each morning to check on the embryo’s growth each day!” - Hannah, from Dublin, works in our Clonskeagh Clinic.
"In my current role as lab manager, I thrive on seeing our team develop skills and confidence every day. But you still can't beat the feeling of coming into the lab and seeing the beautiful blastocysts for transfer on Day 5. That's what gets me up in the morning!" - Mandy, from Australia, works in our Swords Clinic.
Advice for someone who wants to become an embryologist?
"For anyone aspiring to become an embryologist, my advice is to cultivate a strong foundation in biological sciences. Gaining hands-on laboratory experience is crucial, so seek opportunities to work in labs, internships, or related positions to build practical skills. Stay curious and committed to continuous learning, as embryology is a rapidly evolving field. Be prepared for the emotional aspects of the job as well; working with patients on their fertility journey can be both challenging and incredibly rewarding." - Amy, from Kildare, works in our Clonskeagh Clinic.
"Get as much hands-on practical lab experience as you can, study a biological science, and network to find lab technician jobs to get started!" - James, from England, works in our Clonskeagh Clinic.
"Get in touch with junior embryologists if you can! Everyone has had a different path to get to where they are. I started as a lab technician and worked my way up and others came straight into a trainee role. Good to figure out how you could maybe get into the field and always good to have contacts." - Hannah, from Dublin, works in our Clonskeagh Clinic
"This profession demands a great deal of dedication and hard work. Those aspiring to enter this field must continuously renew themselves and strive to update their knowledge and skills. If they believe they can work with pleasure in such an environment, they will ultimately have a profoundly fulfilling and valuable profession that brings immense satisfaction to themselves and others."- Ogun, from Croatia, works in our Clonskeagh Clinic.
