John Webster FRCOG (born 4 July 1936) is an English obstetrician and gynaecologist notable for his contributions to the development of in‑vitro fertilisation (IVF). He was present at the birth of Louise Brown, the world’s first IVF baby, on 25 July 1978, and has continued research and clinical work in assisted reproductive technologies.
Early life and education
Webster was born in England and graduated from the University of Liverpool in 1960 with an MB ChB. Following graduation he completed a house officer post at Clatterbridge Hospital in Liverpool (1960–1963) before serving as Senior House Officer to Patrick Steptoe (1963–1964).
Career
From 1964 to 1974 Webster practised medicine in Canada. He returned to the United Kingdom in 1974, taking a registrar/consultant post in obstetrics, gynaecology and infertility at Oldham General Hospital under Patrick Steptoe. During this period he collaborated with Steptoe and Robert Edwards on pioneering IVF research, culminating in his assistance during Louise Brown’s birth.
In 1980 Webster was invited by Steptoe and Edwards to help establish the world’s first dedicated IVF clinic at Bourn Hall Clinic, where he served as Deputy Medical Director until 1985. He then founded an IVF unit at the Park Hospital in Nottingham (later known as CARE Fertility), becoming its medical director from 1985 until July 2006. The facility’s purpose‑built building includes “John Webster House” named in his honour.
Webster was elected a Fellow of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in 1988, recognising his contributions to reproductive medicine.
Legacy
Through clinical leadership at Bourn Hall and CARE Fertility, as well as ongoing research, Webster has played a significant role in advancing IVF techniques and expanding access to assisted reproduction in the United Kingdom.