When Lee-Sarose Orevich started her Bachelor of Biomedical Science, she was looking for a way to explore her love of science. What she didn’t expect was to start an exciting career as an embryologist.
To say Lee-Sarose Orevich’s work changes lives isn’t hyperbolic – as an embryologist for Monash IVF Group, she regularly assists people with their reproductive needs through assisted reproductive technology procedures for both embryology and andrology.
This wasn’t the path Lee expected to be following when she first applied for the Bachelor of Biomedical Science, but it’s one she enjoys for its combination of work in a laboratory and face-to-face consultations with her patients.
“I find the science of my work fascinating, but the patient-facing procedures are the highlight of my day,” she says.
“You really build a rapport with the patients when helping them on their journey to parenthood. For some, it’s a long and emotional journey to get to this point, so it’s wonderful to be able to assist them with their dreams of becoming parents.”
Lee’s path to embryology wasn’t a direct one – she knew she wanted to pursue a career in science but didn’t know which pathway to take. A chance encounter with a mentor at Griffith University changed the course of her career entirely.
“I remember sitting in a lecture on gene expression during embryonic development, and I had taken a bunch of health law and ethics subject that discussed the ethical issues surrounding assisted reproductive treatments, when a career mentor at Griffith University mentioned she was considering a career in embryology,” she says.
“I didn’t even know that was an option with my degree, but I was so compelled by the science I was learning about, I decided to take the plunge and try it out myself.
“The fact that I get to work with world class, cutting edge scientific equipment every day as an embryologist is something that keeps me on the edge of scientific advancements – it’s amazing to experience!”
In addition to her day-to-day role, Lee is also the Queensland Representative for Scientists in Reproductive Technology (SIRT). The role sees her building events and engagements that assist in developing the field of reproductive science.
“My main aim is to promote education and training and a high standard of excellence throughout the profession,” she says.
“I’m part of a team that disseminates scientific information and enables SIRT members to stay up to date with the most recent advancements in the field.
“I always encourage students to come along to the events for some insight into a career pathway they may not have considered.
“This can help them develop their understanding of the scientific principles of embryology and hopefully lead to more people undertaking this career.”
If like Lee you’re interested in beginning a career in reproductive science, take the first steps today to find out more about the Bachelor of Biomedical Science.
