How to become an Embryologist
Embryologists perform routine diagnostic services and embryological procedures, such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF), at hospitals and clinics.
Personal requirements for an Embryologist
- Good communication skills
- Self-confidence
- Able to relate to people
- Compassionate towards others
- Enjoy working with people
- Able to carry out detailed and accurate work
- Good problem-solving skills
Education & Training for an Embryologist
To become an embryologist, you usually have to study biological science at university, followed by a postgraduate qualification in a relevant field. To get into the degree courses you usually need a Year 12 qualification. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, earth and environmental science, biology, chemistry and physics are normally required. Entry to postgraduate courses usually requires completion of an appropriate bachelor degree. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study.
Additional information
Students and graduates may be eligible for membership with the Fertility Society of Australia (FSA) and with the Scientists in Reproductive Technologies (SIRT) sub-group. SIRT is a special interest group representing the scientific membership of FSA. They promote the education and training of scientists working in reproductive technologies. Visit the FSA and SIRT websites for more information
Duties & Tasks of an Embryologist
Embryologists:
- Determine fertility levels of individuals
- Collect eggs and sperm from patients for processing
- Test the suitability of sperm for use
- Preserve sperm and embryos for future use
- Monitor embryo development
- Select embryos for transfer
- Communicate with patients about specific treatment options
- Research infertility solutions with other medical, nursing and counselling staff
- Use assisted reproductive technologies (ART) for help with infertility
- Monitor and maintain the sperm bank
- Ensure regular maintenance of equipment.
Tasks
- Investigates the chemical structure and function of living cells and their isolated components, organs and tissues in humans, animals, plants, and micro-organisms.
- Examines objects of interest and uses the knowledge gained to create and develop new, and improve existing, products, materials and processes.
- Studies the forms and structures of parasites and toxins by systematic observation, dissection and microscopic examination.
- Designs and conducts experiments, makes observations and measurements, researches information, analyses data, prepares or supervises the preparation of laboratory reports and scientific papers, presents findings at scientific meetings and conferences, and may supervise the work of staff.
Working conditions for an Embryologist
Embryologists are often required to work irregular hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends and public holidays.
Employment Opportunities for an Embryologist
Entry into this occupation is competitive. Once you are employed you will receive on-the-job training in protocols. There are fertility clinics located nationwide in capital cities and larger regional centres.
Average age
38
Future Growth
N/A
Gender Share
66% female
Average full-time
42 hours
Weekly Pay
N/A
Skill level rating
Very high skill
Unemployment
Average unemployment
Full-Time Share
72%
Employment Size
1,300
Employment by state
ACT: 3.9%
NSW: 26.9%
NT: 1.5%
QLD: 17.4%
SA: 7.4%
TAS: 2.6%
VIC: 32.1%
WA: 8.2%
Age brackets
15-19: 0.3%
20-24: 5%
25-34: 35%
35-44: 30.8%
45-54: 16.9%
55-59: 5.5%
60-64: 3.9%
65 and Over: 2.6%
Education level
Advanced Diploma/Diploma: 3.4%
Bachelor degree: 40.9%
Certificate III/IV: 4.1%
Post Graduate/Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate: 48.5%
Year 10 and below: 0%
Year 11: 0%
Year 12: 3%
