Introduction
Subfertility is a common problem in Nigeria and Worldwide. Assisted Reproductive Technology enables couples to achieve their desire to have children. Since the birth of the first IVF baby in 1978, over seven million babies have been born through IVF. The embryology laboratory is the ‘engine room’ of the IVF set-up and the embryologist is in the driving seat. The clinical embryologist is required to carry out complex procedures meticulously in order to achieve a good treatment success rate. The need for a structured and thorough training program for embryologists is clear, but there are no clinics or institutions offering such training in Nigeria.
In response to this situation, St Jude Hospitals & Clinics in the UK have established a training facility within the IVF clinic in Abuja, Nigeria. St Jude’s have been providing fertility & IVF treatment in the UK since 2002, more than 1800 babies have been born through treatments carried out in the clinics. We have designed a blended curriculum of theoretical and practical training in reproductive laboratory sciences for suitably qualified candidates to equip them with up-to-date knowledge and skills in embryology and andrology. There are many training centers in the UK, Europe, India, etc, but fees and other costs are exorbitant. Undergoing training in our institute ensures that the embryologist benefits from our long track record of excellence in the UK, and he/she is well aware of local challenges and constraints and able to handle them competently.
Entry requirements
Candidates should have a Bachelors degree in a biological or related science subject and completed the NYSC.
We will also consider applicants with appropriate or accredited experience within an embryology laboratory.
Course Objective
Provides the candidate with a theoretical and fundamental laboratory foundation in Clinical Embryology and Andrology in preparation for a role as a trainee embryologist.
Course Structure
Duration of course is 9 months. It consists of:
- Web-based theoretical part consisting of online materials, self-directed learning from course textbook, and essay writing
- Compulsory Practical session on-site
- Final exam consists of a written test and a viva.
Course content
- Detailed knowledge of human reproductive anatomy and physiology
- Epidemiology of subfertility
- Cellular and Molecular biology
- Fertilisation and early embryogenesis
- Laboratory methods and practical skills
- Physiology of Implantation
- Assisted Reproductive Technology
- Establishing and maintaining an IVF Laboratory
- Quality control / Quality Assurance
- Data management
Practical skills
- Oocyte pick up
- Semen analysis
- Sperm preparation for IUI, IVF, ICSI.
- IVF insemination
- Zygote and embryo evaluation
- Embryo transfers
- Cryopreservation of oocytes and embryos
- Thawing / warming of oocytes and embryos