(Van Blerkom, Jonathan - 2014) -- BFA Award for Excellence in Research, Scholarly and Creative Work
Overview
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A pioneer in translating an understanding of vertebrate embryogenesis into in vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques in humans, Professor Van Blerkom performed the first successful IVF procedure in Colorado in 1982. Since then he has lectured extensively around the world and has published numerous and highly regarded papers on mammalian (including human) egg and sperm physiology. Many of these publications have hundreds of citations. His prominence in the field is highlighted by his list of invitations to speak, service on editorial boards, consulting activities and numerous awards, including the 2013 Embryologist of the Year by the American College of Embryology. Working with a worldwide group of reproductive specialists as part of the Walking Egg Project, Professor Van Blerkom developed a revolutionary and low-cost method to simplify IVF. While many scientific advances promise to produce benefits years in the future, his procedure has already proven to lead to normal babies at approximately ten percent of the standard cost of current procedures. It is on the verge of being approved as a general procedure by European governments in the next few months.
