Who is Jonathan Van Blerkom?

Jonathan Van Blerkom is a distinguished American reproductive biologist and embryologist known for his pioneering contributions to in vitro fertilization (IVF) and early embryonic development.

He is a Professor in the Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology at the University of Colorado, where he received his PhD in 1974. Since 1982 he has also been actively involved in human IVF. He performed Colorado’s first successful IVF procedure in 1982, establishing himself as a national authority on human gamete physiology.

His research focuses on the molecular organization of the oocyte, mitochondrial bioenergetics, and plasma membrane dynamics in early development—areas critical to understanding developmental competence. He focused on molecular and cellular aspects of early mammalian development including human follicles, oocytes and embryos, which have resulted in the publication of over 140 original research articles, in addition to numerous reviews and coauthored and edited books on early mammalian development, including the human.

He is the Editor-in-Chief of Zygote, an international journal dedicated to the rapid publication of original research in early embryology. He has been a member of Editorial Boards for important journals in the area of developmental biology and reproductive medicine and currently serves as Section Editor of Reproductive BioMedicine Online and Associate Editor of the Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics. He is an invited speaker at numerous international conferences and symposia.

Dr. Van Blerkom developed the simplified culture system that is the centerpiece of the Walking Egg Project’s intent to provide accessible and affordable advanced infertility treatment in developing countries. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the Walking Egg Foundation and continues to undertake research that will further develop the goals of this project.

In summary, Jonathan Van Blerkom has shaped modern reproductive science through groundbreaking IVF work, fundamental discoveries in gamete biology, prolific scholarly contributions, and a commitment to expanding global access to fertility care.