August 23, 2017, by Wan Yong Ho

What can I do as a Biomedical Sciences graduate?

Check out our series of alumni profiles to find out more about what it’s really like to be a graduate of Biomedical Sciences from UNMC.

Chapter I

Jonathan Chooi Mann Seng- graduate of class 2016.

I am currently working as an embryologist at Alpha Fertility Centre’s (AFC) IVF laboratory, alongside a team of dedicated doctors, nurses, embryologists and staffs. AFC is located at Kota Damansara and is one of the leading fertility centres in the region, with cutting-edge fertility treatment technology, high success rates and numerous world 1sts.

This is me conducting a mock ICSI procedure (mock because we don’t usually smile to the camera!) using the closed-system ICSI chamber.

On a day-to-day basis, my work flow includes andrology and embryology which means the handling of both male and female gametes. To name a few, the procedures I carry out are sperm processing, oocyte pick-ups, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), cryopreservation of semen, oocytes and embryos, embryo checking and grading and so forth. My responsibilities also go beyond the scientific discipline with operations in stock checking, purchasing, meticulous documentation and team bonding!

Micromanipulation of reproductive cells.

The high intricacy and time-dependent nature of the job demands great focus, care and attention to detail, so it is likely that I find myself stressed quite often! Therefore, being emotionally strong is also important, because it is common to feel personally responsible whenever a patient’s IVF cycle outcome is undesirable. Also equally tricky is explaining my work to the regular person- I have gotten many amusing responses from friends!

What I find most satisfying about my job lies within the belief that my work contributes to the well-being and happiness of patients who eagerly desire a child. Furthermore, the close involvement with the operation theatre, practitioners, trainers, suppliers and opportunities to attend local and foreign conferences (OGSM, ASPIRE, PGDIS, etc.) means that I am continuously learning and improving.

Jonathan (top right) with AFC’s team of embryologists in cool blue scrubs!

My degree in Biomedical Sciences at Nottingham has helped me with my job enrolment mainly because of Nottingham’s reputation in shaping all rounded-graduates. I am glad to say that studying in UNMC has benefited me greatly knowledge-wise through the interdisciplinary modules taught by experienced lecturers and the well-thought out curriculum. Nottingham has offered me a truly global student experience that I dearly cherish.

 

Article by: Jonathan Chooi Mann Seng (BMS alumni)

 

 

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