Embryology Course: Fundamentals of Clinical ART Laboratory

Course Description:

This foundational course provides an in-depth introduction to embryology laboratory practices and core techniques in assisted reproductive technology (ART). Participants will gain hands-on experience in screening follicular fluid, identifying oocytes, media handling, culture dish preparation, semen processing, conventional IVF, and embryo transfer. The course also emphasizes safety protocols for biological fluid handling, documentation, and quality control. Designed to develop a robust knowledge base, this program prepares participants for roles as lab support staff or junior embryologists aspiring to advance in the field of ART.

Course Objectives:

• Build a solid understanding of embryology lab organization and maintenance.
• Learn and apply conventional IVF techniques, including sperm processing.
• Master essential embryology tasks, such as oocyte identification and media handling.
• Gain proficiency in vitrification and warming techniques for embryos.
• Manage cryo assets effectively, ensuring safety and traceability.
• Develop skills in documentation and quality assurance processes for lab operations.
• Understand aseptic practices, sterilization, and clean room discipline for ART labs.
• Learn embryo-safe preparation of culture dishes and laboratory consumables.

Prospective Learners:

• Junior embryologists, lab technicians, and scientists entering the field of reproductive medicine.
• Lab support staff working in Level 2 clinics with aspirations to become embryologists.

Eligibility:

• MSc in Clinical Embryology, Clinicians who want to learn the basics of clinical embryology
• Post-graduate in Life Sciences
• Graduate in Life Sciences

Course Structure:

• Day 1: Lab organization, maintenance, and clean room discipline.
• Day 2: Media handling, preparation of culture dishes, and aseptic techniques.
• Day 3: Screening follicular fluid and identification of oocytes (demo).
• Day 4: Sperm processing techniques and cryopreservation.
• Day 5: Basics of conventional IVF and semen preparation for IVF/IUI.
• Day 6: Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (Demo), embryo transfer techniques, and lab documentation.
• Day 7: Vitrification and warming techniques of embryos.
• Day 8: Cryo asset management, traceability, and safety protocols.
• Day 9: Quality control measures and compliance with ART lab standards.
• Day 10: Review, practical assessments, and course completion ceremony.

Training/Educational Methods:

• On-Site Hands-On Practice
• Interactive lectures, real-world case studies, practical demonstrations, and group discussions

Certificate of Course Completion:

Issued to participants upon successful completion of the course and passing the practical assessment.

Additional Information:

Limited to small groups to ensure personalized attention and optimal learning experience.
Accommodation can be arranged at the IIT hostel upon request with an extra cost.