An embryologist is a scientist who has studied how embryos are created through fertilization, and embryonic development and cultivation thereafter. They may work in assisted human reproduction treatment, or animal breeding programmes, and/or related research and training/teaching.

Research and maintain knowledge of current evidence and trends about embryo and stem cell biology and reproductive technologies; perform embryology laboratory activities including: preparing eggs, sperm, and embryos; fertilisation; insemination; embryo culture; pregnancy testing; embryo transfer; and monitoring of embryo development and pregnancy; conduct and document embryo biopsies, and analyse and report embryo biopsy results; perform laboratory and process quality control; attend biological, medical, scientific, or other educational seminars; educate clients about embryology laboratory procedures; recognise, prevent, and/or manage situations involving hazards or ethics; perform training/teaching activities.

• Frequently works indoors in laboratories, clinics, offices, or teaching settings in clinics, research institutes, and universities.
• Outdoor work is not a significant component of this job but may be required occasionally in animal breeding roles.
• Works in adequately lit, heated, ventilated, and clean, well-maintained workspaces.
• Laboratory work will require exposure to biological materials that may be hazardous. Protective clothing will be therefore be used.

• Sedentary to light physical demand, frequent sitting in laboratories and offices.
• Stands and walks frequently in laboratories, offices, clinics, and teaching spaces.
• There is an occasional requirement for lifting, carrying, or pulling when assembling laboratory equipment.
• Occasional contact with skin irritants and water may be required in some environments.
• Frequent repetitive hand and finger movements are required when using hand tools and equipment including laboratory equipment, writing instruments, and computers.
• Significant time will be spent looking down microscopes and fine motor skills are required to handle embryos and precursors.
• Driving is not a significant component of this job but may be required more so in animal breeding roles.
• Mental skills necessary include a high level of cognitive functioning with technical, research, laboratory, analytical, mathematical, report writing, computing, communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making capabilities.

A relevant tertiary qualification, generally a post-graduate qualification, or at least five years applicable experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 1). In some cases, particular experience and/or on-job training may be required.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement.