Alpha Scientists

ABOUT ALPHA

What is ALPHA?
An international forum for scientists in reproductive medicine and a non-profit organization.

Alpha was “conceived” during the summer of 1994, by a group of scientists who, having witnessed the slow but steady progress of clinical developments which spread IVF/ART to every corner of the globe - followed by the more recent dramatic explosion in biotechnology and molecular biology which now dominate its practice - recognised that the establishment of clinical embryology with professional status and standards on an international basis had become imperative.  An international society was proposed which could act as a forum for communication and interchange of ideas and information between all scientists, technologists, and technicians working in the field of reproductive science. Alpha was accepted as a Charitable Association in 1997 by the Charities Commission in the UK, with the following objects: “The advancement of the art and science of clinical embryology for the benefit of the public world-wide”.

Alpha’s objectives are “To advance the art and science of clinical embryology for the benefit of the public worldwide, through international promotion of education, communication, and collaboration.” Our website offers the latest resources and information for members.
Internet Conferences are held which discuss current issues in clinical embryology/ART with publication of edited Proceedings, such as (out of print - sorry):

  * “Blastocyst culture, transfer, and freezing”
  * “The use of testicular and epididymal sperm in IVF”
  * “Problem-solving and troubleshooting in IVF”
  * “Safe Cryopreservation of gametes and embryos”
  * “Blastocyst update”, “International legislation and regulation in IVF”
  * “Micromanipulation in assisted reproduction”
  * Worldwide Conferences in Reproductive Biology (Published by Ladybrook Publications, Australia).

Long-term Goals

  * Publish an International Code of Practice for Clinical Embryology, which includes accurate record keeping and patient consent forms, in order to define standards of quality and standardise good clinical practice.
  * Suggest regulations for laboratory accreditation
  * Organise and promote education/training courses, with certification
  * Annual workshops and symposia for scientists in reproductive medicine are regularly held in conjunction with other major conferences.
  * Organise international scientific meetings.

Membership
Alpha membership is open to anyone who is either working in, or has an interest in the science of assisted reproduction. We also act as an “umbrella” for national organisations, in order to promote international collaboration, with the formation of networks and a forum for discussion.

Website
A newly designed website is available to our visitors. A “members only” section is reserved for the Alpha members. It is our desire to keep the site lively and updated and we welcome all input, comments and propositions and so on to keep up a high standard.