Innovations in ART and Clinical Science is a core module within the University of Dundee’s MSc in Human Clinical Embryology and Assisted Conception. Each year, around 20–40 postgraduate medical students participate in the module, which explores innovation, technology development and service management within reproductive medicine. By combining clinical knowledge with entrepreneurial thinking, the module prepares graduates to contribute to innovation in assisted reproductive technology (ART) and clinical services.
Context and Rationale
The module was introduced to better prepare graduates for careers as clinicians or embryologists within a rapidly evolving reproductive science industry. As assisted reproductive technologies continue to develop, the sector increasingly values professionals who can combine scientific expertise with strategic thinking, communication and innovation.
In particular, the module responds to the growing demand for reproductive healthcare services in Scotland and internationally. Many professionals within the field aspire to lead or establish fertility clinics, making entrepreneurial skills increasingly relevant to career progression.
By embedding innovation and entrepreneurship within the curriculum, the programme equips students with the knowledge and mindset needed to understand how reproductive technologies are developed, managed and delivered within clinical environments. The module is therefore particularly valuable for both recent medical graduates and experienced practitioners seeking to expand their expertise in reproductive medicine.
The Learning Activity
Innovations in ART and Clinical Science is a core component of the MSc programme and is delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops, seminars and independent study.
Teaching takes place at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, a leading centre for reproductive medicine and clinical innovation. This setting allows students to engage directly with real clinical environments while learning about the development of new technologies and services within the sector.
The module integrates entrepreneurship-focused teaching delivered in collaboration with the University of Dundee’s Centre for Entrepreneurship. Students participate in workshops exploring concepts such as opportunity recognition, impact, purpose and mission, as well as practical skills including pitching and business model development.
Industry professionals are regularly invited to speak about their experiences working within reproductive science, providing students with valuable insights into the sector and the challenges faced in clinical innovation.
Assessment centres on the development of an original innovation proposal. Working individually and in teams, students identify a challenge within reproductive medicine and propose a solution that could improve clinical practice or service delivery.
Throughout the module, students produce a range of outputs including a viability report, a proposition canvas, and a pitch presentation outlining their proposed innovation. These artefacts mirror the processes used when developing and evaluating new services or technologies within healthcare settings.
Skills and Capabilities Developed
The module develops a range of entrepreneurial and professional capabilities relevant to careers in reproductive medicine.
Students strengthen opportunity recognition and innovation skills by analysing challenges within assisted reproduction and designing potential solutions. Working with peers from diverse academic and professional backgrounds also develops teamwork and collaborative problem-solving skills.
Through networking with clinicians and embryologists at Ninewells Hospital and across the wider industry, students gain valuable professional connections and sector insight. The process of developing and presenting innovation proposals strengthens communication and pitching skills, helping students articulate complex scientific ideas clearly.
By combining clinical knowledge with entrepreneurial thinking, the module encourages students to adopt an innovative mindset, preparing them to lead improvements in reproductive healthcare services and technologies.
Impact and Outcomes
Students completing the module gain practical experience in developing and communicating innovative ideas within a clinical context. These skills enhance graduates’ employability and help them stand out in a competitive field.
Experience gained through activities such as pitching, collaborative project work and industry engagement encourages graduates to take part in innovation-led initiatives throughout their careers. Many students also build valuable professional networks through interactions with clinicians, embryologists and industry professionals involved in the programme.
By equipping students with both clinical and entrepreneurial capabilities, the module supports the development of professionals who can contribute to innovation in reproductive medicine, whether through improving existing services, developing new technologies or leading clinical practices.
Further Information