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Clinical Embryology Training Program

DOH-approved, competency-based training pathway toward clinical embryology practice and UAE licensure

Clinical Training Program in Embryology Application

Fakih IVF Fertility Center - recognized clinical training program by DOH.

Section 1: Candidate Information

Section 2: Eligibility & Licensing Status

Applicant Category

Preference will be given to eligible UAE Nationals in accordance with DOH guidance.

DOH Licensing Eligibility

Section 3: Educational Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree (Mandatory)

Master's Degree (Desirable)

Section 4: Professional Experience

IVF Laboratory Experience

Please specify IVF centres of experience, starting with the most recent one.

Andrology Laboratory Experience

Please specify IVF/Andrology centres of experience, starting with the most recent one.

Section 5: Competency Self-Assessment

Please indicate your level of competence.

Skill Observed Assisted Performed Independently Confident / Trainer Level
ICSI
Vitrification
Biopsy
Embryo grading
Sperm preparation

Section 6: Professional Declaration

Section 7: Program Commitment

Section 8: Career Intent

Section 9: Documentation

All submitted documents must be in English.

Program Overview

The Clinical Embryology Training Program at Fakih IVF is a structured training program approved by the Department of Health (DOH), Abu Dhabi. The program is designed to develop skilled clinical embryologists through intensive hands-on laboratory training combined with structured theoretical education.

The program offers two structured pathways to accommodate different levels of training needs:

1-Year Core Program

Designed for fresh graduates. Provides a comprehensive foundation in clinical embryology, focusing on essential laboratory skills, core procedures, and applied theoretical knowledge.

2-Year Advanced Program

Designed for candidates with prior laboratory or reproductive sciences experience. Offers advanced clinical exposure, in-depth laboratory training, and competency development aligned with UAE licensure requirements.

Both pathways are aligned with internationally recognized standards in reproductive medicine and ART, ensuring high-quality, practice-ready training. This program supports the development of competent embryologists and contributes to strengthening reproductive healthcare services in the UAE.

Program Goals & Objectives

Program Goals

The Clinical Embryology Training Program aims to develop highly skilled clinical embryologists through structured, DOH-approved training that combines hands-on laboratory experience with strong theoretical learning. The program addresses the growing need for standardized embryology training in the UAE.

Program Objectives

By the end of the program, trainees will be able to:

  • Develop core and advanced competencies in clinical embryology within an IVF laboratory setting
  • Apply evidence-based practices in ART aligned with international standards
  • Perform key laboratory procedures with accuracy, safety, and quality compliance
  • Build strong knowledge in reproductive biology and embryology principles
  • Progress toward independent clinical and laboratory practice based on the chosen pathway
  • Work effectively within a multidisciplinary fertility care team
  • Uphold ethical practice, patient confidentiality, and professional standards
  • Contribute to quality improvement and patient safety in the IVF laboratory

Program Policy

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Restricted Access – Enrolled Trainees Only

Program policies are accessible exclusively to enrolled trainees, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with institutional and DOH requirements.

Policies will be shared with accepted candidates as part of the onboarding process. For questions, contact academics.auh@fakihivf.com

Note: Full policy documentation will be updated and made available to enrolled trainees prior to program commencement.

Eligibility & Selection Criteria

Academic Qualifications

Academic qualification criteria are being finalized and will be differentiated for the 1-year and 2-year pathways. Details will be updated once confirmed.

Professional Background

  • Prior laboratory experience (IVF or research settings)
  • Academic projects or scientific publications in reproductive health
  • Relevant certifications or specialized coursework

Language Proficiency

  • Fluency in English (spoken and written) is required
  • Non-native speakers may need to provide proof (e.g., IELTS ≥ 6.5 or equivalent)

Regulatory Requirements

  • Must meet applicable UAE licensing eligibility requirements in line with DOH/MOH guidelines
  • Must have a clean professional and ethical record with no history of disciplinary actions

Exclusion Criteria

Applicants without a bioscience or life sciences background are not eligible. Candidates must be able to commit to the full-time, intensive clinical and laboratory training schedule.

Selection Process

  • Application Submission — Completed application form, CV, academic transcripts, personal statement, two references, English proficiency proof
  • Initial Screening — Review by Program Coordinator and Academic Committee for eligibility and completeness
  • Academic & Aptitude Assessment — Basic science and embryology knowledge evaluation; optional technical aptitude assessment
  • Panel Interview — Structured interview by senior faculty assessing understanding of ART, motivation, communication, and ethical reasoning
  • Final Selection & Offer — Based on combined assessment and interview performance. Formal offer letters issued to successful candidates.
  • Regulatory & Onboarding Clearance — Medical fitness clearance, background verification, UAE regulatory eligibility requirements
The program is offered once annually with a limited intake to ensure high-quality, closely supervised training.

Program Fee Structure

Fee Structure

Program fee details are being finalized and will be published once confirmed. Please contact our academics team for the latest information.

Enquire About Fees

Fee Payment Terms & Conditions

  • Admission & Payment: Admission is contingent upon full and timely payment of all applicable fees. Failure to meet deadlines may result in withdrawal of the offer.
  • Refund Policy: Programme fees are generally non-refundable and non-transferable once paid. In the event the programme is cancelled by Fakih IVF, a full or partial refund will be issued within 60 days.
  • Late Payment: A grace period of 5 calendar days is permitted. After this, a late payment penalty of 2% per week will be applied. Non-payment beyond 14 days may result in suspension or withdrawal.

Program Structure & Training Partners

The Clinical Embryology Training Program is a first-of-its-kind training initiative in the UAE, integrating real-world clinical embryology training, high-fidelity simulation, and international academic collaboration.

🏥 Primary Training Site: Fakih IVF Fertility Center – Abu Dhabi

Duration: 9 months

Fakih IVF serves as the core clinical training site providing immersive, hands-on exposure to all aspects of clinical embryology, including IVF, ICSI, embryo grading, cryopreservation, thawing, biopsy, and time-lapse imaging.

  • Observe and participate in embryology workflows and case discussions
  • Training in QA/QC, laboratory safety, and ART lab management
  • Structured academic sessions: lectures, journal clubs, case reviews
  • Mentored by senior embryologists and fertility specialists

🔬 Simulation Partner: Cooper Surgical – Advanced Simulation Lab

Duration: 1–2 months (integrated within program)

Training through Cooper Surgical's world-leading embryology simulation facility — one of only a few globally.

  • Micromanipulation techniques
  • Vitrification and warming procedures
  • Skill acquisition in a controlled, low-risk environment
  • Performance-based assessment and feedback

🇬🇧 Academic Partner: Care Fertility – United Kingdom In Progress

  • Joint curriculum development and training benchmarks
  • Access to online academic modules and case-based learning
  • Joint certification upon successful completion
  • Optional observership at Care Fertility UK for top-performing trainees

Curriculum Framework

The program follows a competency-based training model, with progressive responsibility granted under supervision in line with DOH-aligned standards.

Core Competency Domains

  • Core embryology laboratory techniques: gamete handling, fertilisation, embryo culture, and cryopreservation
  • Quality control and laboratory governance in ART
  • Understanding of reproductive biology, embryology, and clinical IVF workflows
  • Evidence-based practice aligned with international ART standards
  • Professional conduct, ethics, and patient-centered laboratory practice

Assessment & Progression

Trainees are assessed continuously throughout the program through a comprehensive multi-modal assessment system.

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Workplace-Based Assessments

Direct observation of clinical and laboratory performance in real work settings.

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Competency Sign-offs

Structured competency sign-offs for each major laboratory skill and procedure.

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Procedural Logbook

Electronic logbook documenting all procedures and clinical encounters throughout training.

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Faculty Evaluations

Regular structured feedback sessions with faculty mentors and supervisors.

Progression is based on satisfactory performance across all competency domains. Where required, a structured remediation plan will be implemented. Continued non-performance may result in extension or termination of training.

Career Pathway & Outcomes

Upon Successful Completion

  • Receive certification from Fakih IVF Group Medical Education
  • Eligible to pursue embryology roles within the UAE and internationally (subject to regulatory requirements)
  • Apply for DOH licensure where applicable, in accordance with eligibility criteria
Completion of the program does not guarantee employment or licensure, as these remain subject to external regulatory authorities.

Pathway to Embryologist Licensure in the UAE

Under the UAE Unified Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR), clinical embryologists are classified within Allied Healthcare Professionals. Eligibility typically requires a Bachelor's degree in a relevant life science field and structured postgraduate training in embryology or ART. This program provides structured postgraduate clinical training that aligns with these requirements.

Documentation for Licensure Applications

  • Joint Certificate of Completion (Fakih IVF & Care Fertility UK)
  • Detailed clinical training logbook
  • Academic transcripts and module completion records
  • Assessment reports, OSCE results, and supervisor sign-offs
  • Official completion letter confirming alignment with UAE PQR requirements

International Recognition

The academic collaboration with Care Fertility UK ensures alignment with internationally recognized standards, enhancing professional mobility for graduates pursuing opportunities in the UK, Europe, and other regulated healthcare systems.

Contact Us & FAQs

For inquiries regarding the Clinical Embryology Training Program, please contact our academics team.

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