MCE5112 - IVF processes: Embryo production and cryopreservation techniques (practical) - 2018

This unit will familiarise students with the major aspects of ART laboratory operation. Students will develop and enhance their embryo handling and culture skills through integration of practical skills and theoretical concepts.

Competency will be assessed through gamete preparation, insemination and successful embryo culture. Students will identify the developmental milestones of the pre-implantation embryo and recognise the significance of 'on time' development.

Hands-on semen analysis training will demonstrate the critical components of diagnostic ART testing. A statistics course is integrated into this unit to enable students to critique published scientific data.

Upon completion of this unit, students will be aware of the theoretical, statistical and practical limitations of experimental design, enabling the creation of a cohesive and logical research plan.

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will demonstrate competency in relation to:

1. Laboratory practices including OHSE, etiquette, media selection and equipment familiarisation
2. Gamete preparation for IVF
3. Embryo handling while identifying the significance of the developmental milestones
4. Semen analysis and semen cryopreservation
5. Laboratory record keeping and note taking
6. Appropriate use of statistics to analyse data in ART
7. The development of a research plan designed to solve a problem using well established experimental design and measureable outcomes

• ART familiarisation and embryo culture competency (10%) (hurdle)
• IVF competency (40%) (hurdle)
• Semen analysis competency (20%)
• Statistical exam (20%)
• Written research plan(1,500 words) (10%)

30 hours contact per week (research,tutorials, self-directed study, practical skill training.

See also Unit timetable information

Clinical embryology

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