Laboratory Staff & Embryologists:

The laboratory staff at the Delaware Institute for Reproductive Medicine includes the following people: Stephanie, Mark, Ronnetta, Charlotte, and Kristina. With combined years of experience and extensive knowledge, they collectively fulfill their responsibilities in these three areas:

• Endocrinology: Blood drawing and hormone analysis.
• Andrology: Semen Analysis and processing (inseminations, freezing).
• Embryology: All aspects of In Vitro Fertilization.

Stephanie Pritchard, MT (ASCP) - Laboratory Manager

After receiving her BS in Medical Technology from the University of Delaware in 1994 Stephanie spent some time working at MedLab and Johns Hopkins in their Hematology, Chemistry, and Stat labs prior to coming to Delaware Institute for Reproductive Medicine, PA. Stephanie is certified by the American Society for Clinical Pathology.

Stephanie has been working with Dr. Russell since August of 1998 as an embryologist and andrology technician. She stepped into the role of Laboratory Manager in 2003. Stephanie’s responsibilities as Lab Manager include overseeing the Embryology and Sperm Physiology/Endocrine laboratories, including work flow, personnel performance, and laboratory communications with other office staff. Her role also involves organizing laboratory data and statistics, developing new techniques and revising old procedures, enforcing and following proper safety practices, maintaining and overseeing quality control and quality assurance programs and protocols. Stephanie oversees laboratory accreditation and preparation for inspections, and has inspected other IVF laboratories for the College of American Pathologists – CAP.

You will see Steph during your cycle treatment for a phlebotomy, insemination, oocyte retrieval, or embryo transfer appointment as she enjoys performing the laboratory procedures and meeting patients.

Stephanie is happy to be a member of such an experienced, caring, dedicated, and professional staff as the Delaware Institute for Reproductive Medicine. She feels it is a privilege to be part of our team where helping couples achieve their dreams of parenthood becomes a reality.

Mark Gibbs - IVF Laboratory Supervisor

Mark matriculated through Pennsylvania State University and Thomas Jefferson University, majoring in Microbiology and Laboratory Technology.

At PSU he did work and research on the composition of the male contraceptive pill. This was where he found his passion for the reproductive field.

His early and extensive training in infertility came from the Philadelphia Fertility Institute/ Pennsylvania Reproductive Associates/Fertility Testing Laboratory under the tutelage of Stephen L. Corson, M.D., Kathryn J. Go, Ph.D., and Joel L. Marmar, M.D.

Mark flourished here, quickly ascending to Andrology Lab Manager within 6 months, mastering many specialized skills and then further developing or co-developing highly specific protocols. Through collaboration, Dr. Go noticed his work and professionalism and decided to cross-train him in the field of IVF.

In 2003 Mark joined Dr. Jeffrey B. Russell at the Delaware Institute for Reproductive Medicine. Apart from the Newark laboratory responsibilities, he coordinated all laboratory aspects of the IVF & Embryo Genetics Institute, a satellite office based in Philadelphia at Hahnemann Hospital. Since commencing employment at DIRM, he has been an integral part, along with his team, of “pushing the envelope” to stay on the cutting edge of the ART industry.

Ronnetta Church - Embryologist

Ronnetta has been with DIRM since 2000. She has a B.S. in Biology and a minor in Psychology. She also has an M.S. in Forensic Medicine. She enjoys reading and volunteering.

Charlotte Lott - Embryologist

Charlotte holds a B.A. in Biological Sciences from the University of Delaware and a Master of Public Health degree from Walden University. Her fondness for the sciences led her to positions in the industries of veterinary biologics and pharmaceutical research. She began cultivating her andrology/embryology skills at DIRM in 2001 and thoroughly enjoys being part of Dr. Russell's team..

Kristina Staab - Embryologist

Kristina has been with DIRM since 2003. She graduated from the University of Delaware with a B.A. in Biological Sciences and a minor in French. She enjoys traveling, reading and spending time with her husband and dogs.