Dr. Seungwook Hong, Ph.D., is a distinguished expert in reproductive biology and assisted reproductive technology (ART) with a comprehensive academic and professional background. His journey in reproductive sciences began with a Ph.D. in Molecular Developmental Biology from CHA University in Korea, where he focused on advancing cryopreservation techniques for human oocytes and blastocysts through vitrification methods. Under the mentorship of Professor Hyung-Min Chung, Dr. Hong made significant contributions to the field, exploring the clinical applications of these techniques in assisted reproductive technology (ART) programs.
With an illustrious career spanning decades, Dr. Hong has held pivotal roles in various fertility centers, including his tenure as the IVF Laboratory Director at CHA Fertility Center in Los Angeles. His expertise extends across diverse areas, from embryo co-culture and manipulation to semen analysis and sperm processing for intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF). Notably, he has been recognized for his exceptional contributions, earning certifications as a Clinical Consultant and a High-complexity Clinical Laboratory Director from the American Board of Bioanalysts. Dr. Hong’s commitment to advancing reproductive sciences is evident in his extensive professional experience and active participation in esteemed societies such as the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and the American Association of Bioanalysts. His research, publications, and presentations contribute significantly to the scientific community’s understanding of reproductive technologies and cryopreservation methods, marking him as a respected figure in the field.
EDUCATION
- Ph.D. in Molecular Developmental Biology: CHA University, Korea (2004-2009)
- Master of Science in Animal Reproduction and Breeding: Dankook University, Korea (1988-1991)
- Bachelor in Animal Husbandry: Dankook University, Korea (1984-1988)
- Embryo Co-culture and Manipulation (ICSI): CHA Fertility Center, CHA General Hospital, CHA University, Korea (05/1997-05/1998)
- Embryo Culture, In vitro maturation of human immature oocytes, and Cryopreservation of embryos: CHA Fertility Center, CHA General Hospital, CHA University, Korea (07/1996-07/1997)
- Semen Analysis and Sperm Wash for IUI and IVF: CHA Fertility Center, CHA General Hospital, CHA University, Korea (02/1996-06/1996)
- IVF with mice embryos for quality control of follicular fluids: CHA Fertility Center, CHA General Hospital, CHA University, Korea (01/1995-01/1996)
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
- IVF Laboratory Director: CHA Fertility Center, Los Angeles, California (01/2012-06/2019)
- IVF Laboratory Supervisor: CHA Fertility Center, Los Angeles, California (10/2001-12/2011)
- Visiting Scholar (Senior Embryologist): Center for Women’s Reproductive Care, Columbia University New York-Presbyterian Hospital, NY (03/1999-07/2001)
- Senior Embryologist: CHA Fertility Center, CHA General Hospital, CHA University, Seoul, Korea (01/1995-09/2001)
CERTIFICATIONS
- Clinical Consultant Certification: ABB (American Board of Bioanalysts) – 12/2011
- High-complexity Clinical Laboratory Director Certification: ABB (American Board of Bioanalysts) – 11/2011
- American Society Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)
- American Association Bioanalysts
