Senior Embryologist

Overview

The Senior Embryologist supports the Laboratory Director in delivering superior embryology and andrology services within a fertility clinic. This role involves executing comprehensive clinical embryology duties including advanced procedures like embryo biopsy for preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A), while ensuring excellent patient care, strict quality control, and regulatory adherence.

Clinical Responsibilities

• Carry out routine and specialized embryology procedures independently, aligning with clinic policies, competencies, and regulatory guidelines.
• Perform IVF, ICSI, oocyte and embryo evaluation, culture, embryo transfers, gamete and embryo cryopreservation and warming, sperm preparation, embryo biopsy, and processing of surgically retrieved sperm samples.
• Maintain and update competencies for all authorised lab procedures and obtain additional training as needed.
• Assist with planning and managing treatment cycles, particularly for patients undergoing PGT-A.
• Track laboratory outcomes and aid in sustaining high clinical performance standards.
• Ensure meticulous laboratory record-keeping and timely completion of all documentation.
• Conduct witnessing procedures as per clinic and regulatory protocols.
• Provide mentorship and support to trainee embryologists and junior laboratory members.
• Contribute to the smooth daily functioning of the laboratory and uphold high standards of patient care throughout treatments.

Quality, Governance and Compliance

• Operate in full compliance with clinic policies, laboratory protocols, regulatory frameworks, and professional standards.
• Engage in audits, quality assurance programs, and service enhancement activities within the quality management system.
• Maintain precise laboratory documentation ensuring traceability and regulatory compliance.
• Assist in cryostorage management by monitoring, auditing, and maintaining stored gametes, embryos, and reproductive tissue.
• Support accurate data collection, validation, and reporting, including submission to the HFEA via PRISM.
• Participate in equipment qualification, validation, and verification as necessary.
• Monitor lab performance and contribute to reviewing outcomes and key performance indicators.
• Identify areas for service improvement and assist the evolution of laboratory services.
• Ensure adherence to HFEA regulations, consent protocols, and relevant legislation and guidance.

Leadership, Training and Teamwork

• Assist the Laboratory Director in daily laboratory operations and service delivery.
• Exemplify professional behaviour, good laboratory practices, and a commitment to quality patient care as a senior team member.
• Support induction, training, supervision, and development of trainee embryologists, STP trainees, and lab staff.
• Offer guidance and technical expertise to less experienced laboratory colleagues.
• Maintain and nurture competencies in laboratory techniques, including advanced procedures where authorised.
• Participate in competency assessments and training exercises as per lab requirements.
• Engage in team meetings, audits, service development projects, and departmental initiatives.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues across multidisciplinary teams to provide a comprehensive assisted conception service.
• Stand in for senior colleagues as needed, ensuring continuous service operation.

Research, Development and Professional Growth

• Maintain professional expertise through ongoing continuing professional development activities.
• Stay informed of advances in reproductive medicine and clinical embryology.
• Participate in research, audits, presentations, and service enhancement projects.
• Contribute to the adoption and assessment of new technologies and methodologies where applicable.

General Duties

• Safeguard patient confidentiality and uphold data protection standards.
• Follow all clinic policies and procedures diligently.
• Promote workplace equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Perform any additional duties appropriate to the level and scope of this role when required.

Note: This job description is a flexible document subject to updates to meet evolving service and organizational requirements.