Genea’s partnership with University of Adelaide has set a new standard for life changing science. We spoke to Adelaide based Genea's Director of Research, Nicole McPherson about the groundbreaking program.
At the start of 2024, Genea embarked on an exciting partnership with the University of Adelaide to co-design and deliver the Assisted Reproductive Technology Integrated Learning (ART-RIL) course - a groundbreaking 12-week, hands-on laboratory intensive program in clinical embryology. As Australia's only undergraduate course offering this level of exposure to the ART industry, it has provided students with both fundamental knowledge and critical practical skills in reproductive science.
Nicole McPherson, Genea’s Director of Research based here in Adelaide and the course’s overall coordinator, reflects on the program’s success "Our goal was to provide an unparalleled learning opportunity for students interested in clinical embryology. We wanted to expose them to the kind of advanced laboratory work and techniques that make Genea, and now FertilitySA a leader in the field. Seeing the transformation of these six students over 12 weeks has been truly rewarding. Their dedication and enthusiasm has been outstanding."
A deep dive into ART skills
The course combined 8-10 hours of weekly laboratory work, two-hour in-person workshops, and comprehensive online modules. Under the mentorship of Genea's experienced team, students honed key laboratory techniques, including:
Semen analysis and sperm washing
Egg denuding and embryo handling
IVF and embryo transfers
Vitrification and warming
A two-week research project
Basic micromanipulation skills such as sperm catching, ICSI, and embryo handling
With access to cutting-edge equipment and guided instruction from Genea experts like Diana Bui, Dean Morbeck, and Claire Walker, students tackled tasks that are central to the ART industry.
What the students said about the program
The inaugural cohort of six students - Mia Fenwick, Jessica Berry, Tara Songer, Natasha Tavener, Milana Frost, and Daniela Tosti - emerged from the course equipped with not just laboratory proficiency but also a profound understanding of the ART field.
Student feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with all participants rating the course five stars. One student shared "I loved this course all the way through. It has definitely equipped me with fundamental laboratory skills and knowledge in embryology thanks to our highly knowledgeable and experienced mentors as well as access to advanced equipment."
Another student reflected on the unique opportunity "This was an incredible experience. Nicole is extremely approachable, knowledgeable, and supported by an incredible team. I have not only built practical and research skills but also grown a deep appreciation of the ART industry. Attempting ICSI as a culmination of all the skills learned was the most satisfying part. An absolutely life-changing course."
The course has already opened doors for students who are about to embark on their first roles in IVF clinics:
Mia Fenwick has been offered a Technical Officer role at Genea's Kent Street laboratory.
Jessica Berry will take on an internship at Fertility SA in early 2025, gaining experience across lab work, nursing, operations, and business development.
Program accolades and looking ahead
The ART-RIL course has also been nominated for the prestigious 2024 University of Adelaide Executive Dean’s Team Prize within the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences. This acknowledgment highlights the innovative structure and successful delivery of the course.
Looking ahead to 2025, demand for the course has surged, with overwhelming interest from second-year students majoring in reproductive and medical sciences. Due to laboratory size and equipment constraints, enrolment will be capped at eight students, ensuring the same high-quality, hands-on experience.
Nicole McPherson emphasises the importance of nurturing emerging talent "This course has proven that there is immense potential for creating pathways into the ART industry. Moving forward, we aim to strengthen opportunities for students to transition into roles at Genea and FertilitySA. It’s vital that this partnership not only provides a transformative educational experience but also feeds into the future of our industry’s workforce."
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