Kay Elder
Research Scientist
Dr. Kay Elder is a distinguished scientist, physician, and educator with a career spanning over four decades in reproductive medicine. With a background in biochemistry (BSc, University of St Andrews), molecular biology (PhD, University of Colorado Medical School), and medicine (MBBChir, Cambridge), she has dedicated her expertise to the advancement of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and clinical embryology.
Her journey into IVF began in 1984 when she joined Bourn Hall Clinic as a Clinical Assistant to Patrick Steptoe, one of the pioneers of IVF. She later transitioned into embryology, serving as a Senior Embryologist from 1987, before taking on leadership roles in education and research. Dr. Elder played a pivotal role in developing training programs for IVF professionals, directing continuing education initiatives for 16 years, and helping establish postgraduate degree programs in Clinical Embryology.
Currently a Senior Research Scientist at Bourn Hall, Dr. Elder focuses on patient counselling for gamete and embryo donation in research, as well as fostering scientific collaborations. A prolific author, she has contributed extensively to textbooks and publications on IVF, furthering knowledge in the field.
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Elder’s global upbringing—born in Scotland and raised in Mexico—has shaped her multilingual fluency and cultural outlook. She remains passionate about teaching, music, and the arts, reflecting a lifelong commitment to learning and discovery.
Patient reviews you can trust
Genuine experiences from real patients. See why so many trust us with their fertility care.
“We went to an open evening at Bourn Hall Wickford and came away feeling really positive about the place. The staff were really friendly and the presentation was clear about the statistics regarding success rates and live birth rates; their data was very transparent. We came away feeling like we would really be looked after.”
Katy and Leigh are parents to Charlie after IVF
Patient 2023
“We chose to make an appointment at Bourn Hall Wickford because of the favourable reviews. When we got there and met the staff they were just so lovely, making us feel welcome and explaining to us what tests would need to be done and what our options were; we just thought ‘yes, let’s get the ball rolling!”
Jess and Fran are mums to Nathan after IVF with donor sperm
Patient 2023