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How Inea Collazo Sees the Future of Embryology Work

By Jennifer Jay Palumbo

Inea Collazo debunks misconceptions about embryologists and their work. "People think we ‘create babies,’ but that’s not true," she clarifies. We don’t fertilize eggs; we inseminate them. Fertilization happens naturally between the egg and sperm—we just create the right environment for it to happen. It’s like being a gardener. We nurture, but we don’t control the outcome."

For more than a decade, Collazo has been overseeing laboratories and guiding her team through the ever-evolving world of fertility science. As the Lab Director at IVFMD, a network of six clinics across South Florida, she has witnessed firsthand the rapid technological advancements that are reshaping how embryologists work. Known for her deep expertise and practical approach, Collazo has spent her career integrating new technologies while balancing the needs of both her patients and her team.

This perspective is crucial in a field often misrepresented by pop culture. "Another misconception? That we all work in isolation," she adds. "The best labs function like well-oiled teams, with collaboration and shared expertise driving success."

Her journey into embryology wasn’t a straightforward one. Originally considering a career in forensic science, she instead found herself drawn to the field of assisted reproduction, where she could play a pivotal role in helping families grow. "I'll be honest with you," she shares "everything lined up, and it was like the universe was saying, ‘No, this is where you belong.’ And it has been fulfilling ever since."

Beyond her technical skills, Collazo is known for her commitment to mentorship and team development, often reminding young embryologists that success in this field requires adaptability, ethics, and a willingness to embrace new innovations. Her labs have adopted numerous cutting-edge technologies over the years, but one tool in particular has dramatically transformed the way her team operates.

“This field is relatively new, and there’s still so much we don’t know, but that’s what makes it so exciting.”

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Mesmerized

When Collazo first encountered the EmbryoScope, she wasn’t just impressed—she was mesmerized. "Once I got over my overwhelming feeling of being able to see the whole process of pronuclei formation all the way to blastocyst," she recalls, "I started thinking about the ways we could utilize ES+ as a tool to improve efficiency in the laboratory." One defining moment? "The first time, we had to do an early ICSI and not have to be at the lab at 5:00 AM!" That was when she realized how time-lapse technology could revolutionize embryology—not just for patient outcomes but for the work-life balance of her team.

Collazo has steadily integrated five (and counting) EmbryoScopes into her labs. The impact? A streamlined workflow, improved embryologist efficiency, and a better work-life balance for her team.

"With the rising demand for IVF and the shortage of skilled embryologists, automation is definitely the natural next step," Collazo explains. "Tasks like dish culture preparation, which take up so much time and attention, could really benefit from automation. It’s not just about saving time—it’s about maintaining the integrity and precision that’s so critical in IVF."

Sons, Sailing, and CSI

Collazo’s journey into embryology was a calling. "I was actually going to be a CSI," she laughs, "but I opted to be part of the creation of human life rather than working with finding out why a life ended." Her career has been one of long hours, dedication, and relentless curiosity. "This field is relatively new, and there’s still so much we don’t know," she says. "But that’s what makes it so exciting."

Before she was navigating embryos in the lab, Collazo was navigating the open sea. A former avid sailor and scuba diver, she even earned her skipper’s license. “Sailing challenged both my body and mind,” she explains. “Adjusting the sails to work with the wind and reach a destination was always an exciting puzzle. In a way, it reminds me of life—we’re constantly adjusting to stay on course.” That mindset has served her well in a demanding field where flexibility and precision are essential.

Despite the challenges, she remains deeply fulfilled by her work. "My boys grew up knowing that sometimes their mom had to rush to the lab in the middle of the night," she shares. "They planned their weekends around my schedule. But they also saw my passion for what I do, and I hope that inspires them to follow their own paths with the same dedication."

The Moment That Stuck

One moment stands out in Collazo’s career—one that continues to fuel her passion today. "There was a couple who worked multiple jobs just to afford a single IVF cycle. When they came in to hear their pregnancy test results, the husband stopped the doctor and said, ‘Just let me know if I need to get a third job.’ That moment stuck with me," she recalls. "It was a reminder of the sheer determination and sacrifice our patients go through. It’s what pushes me always to do my best."

“And above all, you have never to stop learning. This field evolves so fast—you have to be willing to evolve with it.”

What Makes a Great Embryologist?

When asked about the key qualities of an exceptional embryologist, Collazo doesn’t hesitate: compassion, patience, dedication, adaptability, and unwavering ethics. "This is a field where details matter. You need problem-solving skills, strong communication, and scientific knowledge. And above all, you have never to stop learning. This field evolves so fast—you have to be willing to evolve with it."

She also stresses the importance of teamwork. "You’ll be working with amazing people, and it’s easy to feel like you have to do it all yourself. But don’t forget to lean on your team. Everyone has a role to play, and the more you collaborate, the stronger your results will be."

The Future of IVF Labs

If Collazo could design the perfect IVF lab of the future, what would it look like? "An automated lab," she says without hesitation. "But more than that, it would be staffed with people who share my work ethic and core values. Technology can improve efficiency, but the human touch will always be irreplaceable."

Looking ahead, Collazo sees AI and automation as the next frontier in embryology. "Time-lapse technology combined with AI is a game-changer," she says. "Being able to track an embryo’s development without disturbing it and getting such a detailed view is huge. AI’s ability to analyze images and pick up on patterns we might miss is a massive advantage. It’s like giving embryologists an extra pair of eyes."

She also emphasizes the role of automation in improving consistency and reducing human error. "By automating tasks like dish preparation and vitrification, we can minimize variability, which is essential in a field where even the smallest change can impact outcomes."

Celebrate the Wins

If she could go back and give advice to her younger self, Collazo would say this: "Stay open to change, don’t be afraid of it. This field is going to evolve so quickly, and new technology will challenge you in ways you can't even imagine. Stay curious. Keep learning. And above all, take care of yourself—because you can’t pour from an empty cup."

Her final words? "Celebrate the wins. IVF is life-changing for so many families, and the work you do matters more than you realize."