STP Embryology 3

My journey in reproductive science began in 2020 as a reproductive technologist in andrology at Cambridge IVF. As my first introduction into working in the field, it was a fantastic experience in the fore-and-background operations of a busy diagnostic service and see first-hand the patient experience in an emotional field of medicine. I had the opportunity to grow, learn from and alongside a brilliant team of scientists with a passion for the field and the service we provided. I then transitioned into embryology through the 2022 STP intake at the Hewitt Fertility Centre Liverpool, completing my training in September of 2025.

Both my prior experience in andrology and current experience in Embryology have developed my practical laboratory skills, my ability to work cohesively in a team in busy diagnostic and clinical laboratories and my patient facing communication and counselling skills, all to provide the best possible patient experience. While the STP gave me a robust theoretical and practical foundation, everyday experiences in the management and provision of the service provided new challenges to reinforce prior learning and serving as an opportunity for further development. Even colleagues with decades of experience in the field face new learning opportunities as practice changes and the landscape of reproductive science continues to develop.

The STP felt like a long and winding road at the beginning with no real end in sight but having gone through it I can say that the program really does fly by (particularly the final year!). The sheer workload was unlike anything I’d previously undertaken, when coupled with the Master’s element and being in full-time employment the course really can test your resolve at times. The reflective elements introduced in my cohort required constant revaluation of experiences and learning and now looking back at some of my pieces I can see how far I’ve come. I have been fortunate to have been offered a permanent role at the centre I trained at, which has provided me an excellent platform as I transition from a trainee to state-registered embryologist. I’ve grown in confidence with my decision making, I feel a more important and trusted member of the team; it was awkward at first when my colleagues asked for my opinion to make a clinical decision and this wasn’t part of an assessment, but this showed me that I was seen as a fully competent scientist.

While the burden of competency writing, training, and university work has been lifted and I’ve regained my life outside of work, the time spent in work is now more focused with an increased demand to fulfil your role to ensure smooth service operation. The stakes are higher than they were as a trainee but with the amazing team I am now part of and previous experience to back me up, I’m looking forward to seeing how my career continues to develop and the exciting opportunities ahead.

To anyone currently on the STP or looking to join in the coming years, it’s a worthwhile experience in the training and learning, and you should make the most of building networks with fellow trainees around the country and fostering those connections.