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ASRM Clinical Embryology Learning Laboratory (“CELL”)

Build the skills, confidence, and laboratory experience needed to become a successful clinical embryologist through immersive, hands-on training designed specifically for professionals working in SART-affiliated IVF laboratories.



The ASRM Clinical Embryology Learning Laboratory (CELL) is a comprehensive, tuition-based training program developed to address the growing need for standardized embryology education in IVF laboratories across the United States. Designed for aspiring and early-career embryologists employed by SART member clinics, CELL combines foundational scientific knowledge with extensive laboratory practice to help participants become skilled, independent professionals prepared for long-term success in the field.

Through a 10-month curriculum that blends virtual learning, in-person didactic instruction, and 8 weeks of intensive, hands-on laboratory training in a simulation lab, you will:

  • Build technical expertise and confidence through immersive, hands-on laboratory training and competency-based skill development
  • Enhance essential embryology techniques, while strengthening critical thinking and clinical decision-making abilities
  • Learn how to minimize risk, maintain consistent quality, and make informed decisions in the lab through instruction in “defensive embryology”
  • Collaborate with a small cohort of peers throughout the program, enhancing shared learning opportunities
  • Cultivate relationships with ASRM CELL’s network of faculty, experts, and laboratory leaders, gaining direct engagement and mentorship
Applications for the 2027 CELL cohort are now being accepted through October 31, 2026.


If you are interested in advancing your embryology training, speak with your laboratory supervisor, lab director, or practice leadership about enrolling in CELL.

Complete your application today, and begin your journey to becoming a successful, independent embryologist!
CELL learners clustered around their teacher

Who Should Apply?

CELL is designed for individuals working in SART-affiliated IVF laboratories, including: 

  • Early-career embryologists and newly hired laboratory team members seeking structured foundational training 
  • Employees transitioning into clinical embryology from related scientific or healthcare roles 
  • Recent graduates hired into IVF laboratories who need hands-on experience and advanced embryology knowledge 
Apply to CELL
Eager clinical embryologist ready to learn from the ASRM CELL program

Learn More

Read our online brochure to learn more about CELL, including a 2027 timeline, module description, and FAQs.


View the brochure flipbook

FAQ

CELL will provide graduate-level, in-depth education combined with hands-on practice to transform young embryologists into contributing team members who understand the “whys” and “hows” of ART in the IVF laboratory. The CELL course runs concurrently with work in the home laboratory, allowing for potential immediate application and, most importantly, retention of skills learned.

Preference will be given to applicants from SART member clinics that can demonstrate full support for the trainee’s participation, including covering tuition, travel/lodging, and time away from the lab. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and be currently working or seeking work in an IVF or related laboratory. While employment at a SART member clinic is preferred, other qualified applicants will be considered.

The duration of the 2027 CELL training is 10 months.

Tuition for 2027 is $18,500, due in full by January 12, 2027. Tuition does not include travel and lodging expenses. Transportation to the training center and meals on-site will be provided. ASRM also offers tuition scholarships, and applicants can contact Madeline Brooks at (205) 583-7952 or mbrooks@asrm.org for more information.

8-10 trainees will be accepted in the CELL cohort.

Upon completing all requirements and passing the evaluation, participants receive an ASRM Certificate of Completion in Clinical Embryology. In addition, participants get 8 weeks of specific hands-on guided lab sessions led by experts from SRBT and across the field. Participants will also receive free access to the ASRM EDGE tool for one year, along with additional membership and conference benefits.

The CELL course will include 8 weeks of on-site hands-on training. See the CELL Training Timeline for in-person dates.

For both didactic and hands-on activities, trainees must pass competency assessments as well as a midterm and final exam.

Upon completion, trainees will be able to:

  • Identify and use sterile tissue culture techniques
  • Identify and prepare IVF supplies and media for assisted reproductive technologies (ART) using various methods
  • Use microscopy to identify, handle, evaluate, and manipulate gametes and embryos during ART procedures.
  • Demonstrate proficiency with handling and manipulation of eggs and embryos during ART procedures
  • Demonstrate proficiency with the following ART procedures:
    • evaluation and preparation of semen samples for ART
    • oocyte retrieval and culture
    • standard insemination of oocytes
    • intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
    • embryo culture
    • embryo biopsy and sample preparation skills
    • cryopreservation and thaw of gametes, embryos, and reproductive tissue
  • Identify quality control procedures and troubleshooting in the ART laboratory.

For more information about CELL, contact Madeline Brooks at (205) 583-7952 or mbrooks@asrm.org.

Excited researchers participating in the ASRM CELL Program

See the 2026 CELL Cohort in Action!

Click the link below to view photos of trainees learning at CooperSurgical’s embryology training center.

View the Cohort Photo Album