Embryologist

Job TitleEmbryologistJob DescriptionUnder supervision of the Lab Director and direction of Lead embryologist, the Embryologist performs basic technical/clinical and research duties independently, as well as assists the senior embryologist with advanced duties in the IVF laboratory.Performs all the complex laboratory procedures required for an in-vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle including sperm testing and preparation, related hormone testing, identification and evaluation of human oocytes in follicular fluid, assessment and viability of recently fertilized oocytes, microinjection techniques such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), assisted hatching manually or with laser, embryo biopsy for preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), appropriate culturing of cleaved embryos and blastocysts, embryo grading and selection of human embryos for transfer, oocyte/embryo/sperm cryopreservation, storage and thawing.The Embryologist works in a collaborative relationship with the Laboratory Director and other lab team members, as well as with other office staff in the clinic.Essential ResponsibilitiesConducts the full range of basic Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) laboratory procedures under the direction of the Laboratory Director and/or senior Embryologists.Conducts serum/media preparation with accuracy and impeccable attention to detail.Conducts lab tests related to IVF treatment including semen analysis, and hormone tests.Conducts sperm preparation to remove dead sperm and purify samples, meeting qualitative goals as measured by successful inseminationsPerforms egg retrievals and cumulus removal, meeting established goals for average numbers of eggs retrieved.Performs conventional and ICSI inseminations, meeting established percentage goals for fertilization.Completes fertilization checks for conventional insemination and ICSI, meeting numerical targets for the maximum number of mature eggs fertilized and placed in culture.Successfully performs embryo grading to select embryos for transfer, meeting goals established by Lab Director, including passing proficiency testing twice per year.Successfully performs embryo warming and transfers, measured by the pregnancy rate per transfer.Conduct procedures of embryo vitrification with meticulous attention to detail.Proficiency is measured by the percentage of recovered embryos and survival of warmed embryos.Learn and become proficient in advanced IVF procedures (including ICSI, Embryo biopsy, and Egg vitrification) under the guidance and direction of the Lab Director and senior Embryologists.Conduct daily quality control activities.Maintain accurate and timely documentation.Ancillary duties as required to maintain a clean and operating laboratory, cryo tank maintenance & monitoring, cleaning and maintaining equipment, and inventory control.Complies with regulations and laws for human ART in the U.S. and applicable state, adheres to the policies, procedures and rules of our laboratory.Works collaboratively with the Lab Director and lab team to proactively identify evolving best practices, as well as areas for improvement in laboratory processes and operations.Meticulously follow detailed laboratory standard operating procedures as well as comply with all safety policies.Meets quality standards and numerical goals for laboratory procedures, as set by the Lab Director.Ensures that the laboratory always has appropriate and adequate supplies available for all laboratory procedures and assists with ordering as needed.Other duties as assigned.Knowledge and SkillsTo perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily.The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required.Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with the lab team and patients and to work cross-functionally with other employees in the clinic.Able to effectively prioritize and to ask for assistance when needed to meet time-sensitive workflow.Ability to exercise independent judgment and initiative.Ability to be extremely flexible and adaptable to varying and time-sensitive workload.Exercise a high level of discretion and sensitivity to patient privacy. Ability to maintain a clean and sanitized environment.Mathematical SkillsAbility to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, decimals, and percentages.Minimum QualificationsBachelor of Science in biology, chemistry, reproductive Biology, medical technology, or Animal Science from an accredited institution.Meet state specific certification/licensure requirements, if applicable.A minimum of 2 years work experience in an IVF lab is required.Successfully completed a minimum of 30 documented supervised procedures (30 of each type of procedure) is required.Successfully completed a minimum of 20 documented independent procedures is preferred.Must have working knowledge of healthcare regulatory and compliance policy (i.e., HIPAA).Must be able to handle multiple, simultaneous tasks effectively and efficiently while maintaining a professional, courteous manner.Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, particularly around complex issues.High integrity, including maintenance of confidential information.Must be able to exercise good judgment and positively influence others, including handling confrontations with poise and efficiency.Advanced computer skills (including, but not limited to spreadsheets, word documents, Internet, and email).Experience with MS, Word, Excel, and ability to learning new computer programs.Shows initiative and enjoys working as a team in a fast-paced environment with strong attention to details.Physical RequirementsPhysical Requirements (MediumMax 25lbs): up to 25 lbs, 0-33% of the work day (occasionally); 11-25 lbs, 34-66% of the workday (frequently); 01-10 lbs, 67-100% of the workday (constantly); Lifting 25 lbs max; Carrying of objects up to 25 lbs; Occasional to frequent standing & walking, Occasional sitting, Close eye work (computers, typing, reading, writing), Physical demands may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks. Environmental factors: Factors affecting environment conditions may vary depending on the assigned work area and tasks. Environmental exposures include, but are not limited to: Blood-borne pathogen exposure Bio-hazardous waste Chemicals/gases/fumes/vapors Communicable diseases Electrical shock, Floor Surfaces, Hot/Cold Temperatures, Indoor/Outdoor conditions, Latex, Lighting, Patient care/handling injuries, Radiation, Shift work, Travel may be required. Use of personal protective equipment, including respirators, environmental conditions may vary depending on assigned work area and work tasks.Additional DetailsEmory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.Emory Healthcare is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. Please contact Emory Healthcare's Human Resources at View email address on click.appcast.io. Please note that one week's advance notice is preferred.