Karen Thompson is a Senior Clinical Embryologist with nearly 30 years of experience in assisted reproduction and fertility laboratory leadership.
She is the Embryology Director and HFEA Person Responsible at Genus Medical Fertility, where she leads the development and governance of the embryology laboratory and clinical science services.
Karen began her career in reproductive medicine in 1995 and has since held senior roles at several leading UK fertility centres. She previously served as clinical lead of embryology and HFEA person responsible in Leeds, where she provided strategic oversight of laboratory services, regulatory compliance and clinical governance within one of the UK’s largest IVF programmes.
Her academic background includes an HND in Applied Biology, a BSc (Hons) in Biology, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Embryology. She has been HCPC registered as a Clinical Scientist since 2003 and is a diplomate of the Royal College of Pathologists.
Throughout her career, Karen has led the implementation of key developments in IVF laboratory practice, including routine blastocyst culture, vitrification, time-lapse embryo imaging and the introduction of preimplantation genetic testing services.
She has also overseen major service transitions, laboratory development projects and regulatory change, guiding teams through complex operational and clinical challenges.
Karen is a committed educator and mentor within the profession. She led the Scientist Training Programme locally at Leeds and contributes nationally to education and workforce development through the Association of Reproductive and Clinical Scientists (ARCS). She also supports training, assessment and professional registration routes for clinical embryologists.
Her leadership combines scientific expertise, strategic laboratory management and a strong commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-focused fertility care.
