Scientists
Our scientists take their role in your fertility journey very seriously. They handle your eggs, sperm and embryos with the utmost care. Although they often work behind the scenes, you can rest assured that during each stage of your fertility journey our world-class science team are behind you.
The role of scientists in your fertility journey
During your fertility journey, our scientists are responsible for completing the following processes:
- In-vitro fertilisation (IVF)
- Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
- Cryopreservation of eggs, sperm and embryos
- Embryo screening
- Thawing of eggs, sperm and embryos
- Genetic testing of embryos
Our scientists also assist with egg collections, embryo transfers and other procedures.
Leading the future reproductive science
Monash IVF were responsible for the world’s first IVF pregnancy in 1973. Since then we’ve remained at the cutting edge of scientific research to provide our patients with the most advanced fertility treatment available.
Our science team has a wealth of local and international scientific experience. Many of our scientists conduct research into different facets of reproductive science. Monash IVF is globally renowned for our exceptional scientists and the success rates we achieve.
Meet our Scientific Directors
Our Scientific Directors lead our science team across Australia. With a wealth of knowledge and experience, they ensure we achieve scientific excellence for our patients.
Our Scientific Directors make up our Group Scientific Advisory Committee. This committee is focused on maintaining leading success rates for our patients. They're dedicated to continuous improvement and establishing and maintaining optimal scientific and laboratory processes. Above all, our Scientific Directors are committed to providing the best possible care for our patients.
You can learn more about our Scientific Directors below.
Professor Deirdre Zander-Fox
Chief Scientific Officer, Monash IVF Group
Adjunct Professor (Practice), Monash University and Adjunct A/Prof (Research) University of Adelaide
B.SC. (HONS.), PH.D.(MED), DIP.MGT
Professor Deirdre Zander-Fox has worked in Assisted Reproduction since 2004. She completed a Bachelor of Science followed by an Honours degree (First Class) in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of Adelaide. In 2010, she graduated with a PhD in Reproductive Medicine in which she undertook novel research into the impact of in-vitro stress on preimplantation embryo development, viability, and metabolism.
She is currently the Monash IVF Group Chief Scientific Officer as well as being Regional Scientific Director overseeing Monash IVF Victoria, Monash IVF Albury and Malaysia. She is currently responsible for the scientific directorship and operations and provision of clinical Embryology, Andrology, Endocrinology, and Genetic Testing services within these clinics. She is also chair of the Group Scientific Advisory Committee for the Monash IVF Group.
In addition to her clinical roles, Prof Zander-Fox also holds multiple academic positions including adjunct Associate Professor positions at two major Australian Universities (Monash University and University of Adelaide) as well as holding National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) research funding. Through these university affiliations she is involved in multiple collaborative research projects as well as supervision of PhD and honors students.
Prof Zander-Fox has authored a substantial number of peer reviewed journal articles and book chapters with her research primarily focusing on improving laboratory technology that will directly benefit infertile patients including cryopreservation, microinjection technology and culture media design. Her basic research interests focus on the impact of the environment during peri and pre-implantation development on programming fetal growth and offspring health.
Ryan Rose
Scientific Director - VIC/ACT & Malaysia
Ryan Rose is a Scientific Director for the Monash IVF Group, overseeing laboratory operations across Victoria, the Australian Capital Territory, and Malaysia. He holds a PhD in Medicine from the University of Adelaide, where he also serves as an Adjunct Lecturer. Since 2010, Ryan has worked in assisted reproductive technology across multiple species, bringing more than 15 years of experience to the field.
He has led pioneering research in gamete biology and mitochondrial-targeted therapies, published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, and contributed to advancing knowledge in reproductive biology.
His leadership has been instrumental in guiding clinical trials, establishing state-of-the-art IVF laboratories, and refining laboratory protocols that improved patient outcomes.
Tammie Roy
Scientific Director – Queensland, Monash IVF
Ph.D.
Tammie Roy is a reproductive scientist with more than 20 years’ experience advancing Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and fertility care. She holds a PhD in Reproductive Biology and has extensive experience leading scientific and clinical teams across the fertility sector.
Throughout her career, Tammie has focused on advancing laboratory practices, implementing innovative technologies, and optimising patient outcomes through evidence-based approaches. She has led diverse, multi-disciplinary teams across multiple sites, established governance and quality frameworks, and driven initiatives that enhance the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of ART services.
As Scientific Director – QLD, Tammie leads laboratory operations, supports multi-disciplinary teams, and ensures scientific and clinical excellence. She is committed to translating scientific advancements into tangible benefits for patients, fostering collaborative, high-performing teams, and creating an environment where patients can feel confident that their care is guided by the latest evidence and best practice. Tammie’s work is guided by a passion for excellence, patient-centred innovation, and the belief that every individual undergoing fertility treatment deserves reassurance, clarity, and confidence throughout their journey.
Start your fertility journey
Wherever you are on your journey, one of our supportive nurse enquiry team members can help you understand your options and take the next step. These conversations are free and informative.