How can Artificial Intelligence help in IVF?

Medicine, like any other discipline, has increasingly embraced AI and other digital-age technologies. In the past decade, we have witnessed the emergence of several technological advancements in the in-vitro fertilization (IVF) laboratory.

Ivan Adji-Krstev, AI enthusiast and Python/DevOps Developer at Symphony Solutions, is sharing his experience working with AI project and IVF laboratory.

1. What is AI and how did you get into this field?

It’s not something new, that’s for sure. In short, AI is development of computer systems like application or Robots to do something that humans can do, such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making and more. As for me, it’s just another challenge. I created my first web page when I was 12, so I’m always into something new when it comes to IT. One blog post to another, video tutorials, then reading books and learning more and more about it. It becomes fun and challenging. It all begins with curiosity for new stuff.

2. What was your first project?

My first project was with Deep Learning/Computer Vision, trying to detect objects. By using the camera on my laptop I tried to detect some random stuff like objects in the room, for example, my watch. After some different experiments and apps on the way, EMBRY, the project I’m currently working on, was born. I can say EMBRY is my first big AI Project.

3. What do you enjoy most about your work with AI and particularly with NewBorn Clinic?

Well, EMBRY was totally different from the other projects I’ve worked on so far. My wife, who is an embryologist in the NewBorn Clinic, is the one under whose guidance the concept of this new AI technology shall be implemented in their lab. It’s always a pleasure when you work with open-minded people just like the team in NewBorn Clinic. They know their job best for the whole process.

4. How do you combine your own project with your full-time job?

Full time-job always comes first. It’s all about time management. If you love what you do you, won’t have problems. But on the other hand, I also have to be a responsible dad and this is something beyond comparison with anything else. It might have been hard at the beginning, but I managed it.

5. What are your key takeaways from this experience?

I learned a lot about IVF (In-Vitro fertilization). It’s a process that sometimes requires more attempts and a lot of patience. Knowing the satisfaction of the couples who have done IVF is one big thing for all those included in the process. And I think patience is the key factor for lots of things.

I will share all the insights from my experience during the event “How can Artificial Intelligence help in IVF?” on December 17. So, you all are welcome!

6. What skills and knowledge does one need to start working with AI?

Tips for beginners?Anything related to data science, algebra, statistics, and probability. These are the key points for AI. After that, any programming language is welcome, but I’ll go with Python. Look at Tensorflow, it has what it needs to start something.

7. How do you follow professional trends? How do you learn?

I learn every day by gaining new experience and I also read a lot on the Internet. I google a lot (smiley) and share information and experience with colleagues.

8. Do you know of any professional anecdote from your field?

The idea of how EMBRY was born is interesting. I was trying to prove my wife that I can detect mature eggs by using AI, and I was so happy when I did it because I was finally right about something (but don’t tell her).