http://www.newcastle.edu.au/profile/john-aitken More recently he...

http://www.newcastle.edu.au/profile/john-aitken

More recently he has developed a method for selecting the best sperm from ejaculate, which makes the process of sperm separation for in vitro fertilisation faster and more accurate.

"In assisted conception, the best sperm needs to be selected because it will impact the development potential of the embryo," he explains.

His research led to the development of a separating device called the CS10, manufactured in conjunction with life sciences company NuSep. Set for a commercial launch in 2015, it has the potential to snare a substantial share of the world market estimated to be worth more than $100 million a year.

Currently in Australia, one in 30 children is the product of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), however this achievement raises some issues.