Ever thought about a career in fertility? Our lab manager, Sarah Thompson, reflects on her journey to becoming an embryologist. Surprisingly, only about 25% of STEM roles are filled by women, yet a staggering 90% of embryologists are female, making it a unique and inspiring field.
Sarah’s Educational Path
To motivate young women embarking on their university adventures, Sarah shares her story: “I began my studies in Human Reproduction at the University of Leeds and later pursued a Master’s at Imperial College London. While working in a hospital, I discovered clinical embryology. It was an incredible chance to assist couples while being at the forefront of science in a rapidly advancing discipline.”
The Excitement of Embryology
Embryology is an exhilarating field that continually evolves, with groundbreaking research leading to advancements in IVF treatments like ICSI and embryo freezing. Sarah notes, “As someone who also desires a family, I felt a deep connection to helping patients achieve their dreams.”
Breaking into a Competitive Field
However, breaking into this competitive field is no small feat. Sarah remembers, “When I applied, there were only three training positions available across the UK.” The job demands a specific personality type—attention to detail, the ability to juggle multiple tasks, and a good sense of calm under pressure. “I thrive on a bit of stress; it keeps me alert,” she adds.
Pride in Her Work
“I’m incredibly proud of my position. The team at our clinic is dedicated to doing everything possible for each patient, even if it means opening the clinic just for an embryo transfer to get the timing perfect.”
Travel Opportunities
Travel opportunities are also a perk of the job. “Since many practices are similar worldwide, I’ve had the chance to work abroad. This included several years in Canada, where I helped establish an IVF lab and introduced innovative techniques that weren’t yet common there.”
Returning to Oxford Fertility
After training in London and Oxford, Sarah returned to Oxford Fertility six years ago and feels a strong sense of pride in her work. “Our clinic is part of The Fertility Partnership, which means we can share insights and techniques across eight clinics in the UK. We know that even the smallest detail can significantly impact IVF success.”
Encouragement for Future STEM Professionals
Sarah encourages anyone interested in STEM, particularly young women, to explore this life-changing field. “I’m really glad I took this path.” If you’re curious about joining a dynamic team, check out our careers page for current opportunities.
Additional Resources
By the way, if you’re interested in learning more about family planning options, you might enjoy this blog post about a sweet alternative for Valentine’s Day without candy. Plus, for those considering home insemination, check out the BabyMaker at home insemination kit, a great authority on the topic. For further information on IVF, Wikipedia is an excellent resource on in vitro fertilisation.
Conclusion
In summary, Sarah’s journey as an embryologist illustrates a fulfilling career that blends science with compassion, and the opportunities for growth and travel make it even more appealing.