Which scientist is associated with devising the technique of IVF (in vitro fertilisation), leading to the birth of the first test tube baby?

Introduction / Context:
In vitro fertilisation, commonly called IVF, is a technique in which egg and sperm are combined outside the body and the resulting embryo is then transferred to the uterus. This method has helped many couples dealing with infertility. This question asks you to identify the scientist most closely associated with devising the IVF technique that led to the first test tube baby.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The medical technique is IVF, not simple artificial insemination.
• The work led to the first successful human birth through this method.
• The options list scientists and engineers from different fields.
• We assume awareness that IVF development earned a Nobel Prize.

Concept / Approach:
Robert Edwards, a British physiologist, worked extensively on human fertilisation outside the body and, together with gynaecologist Patrick Steptoe, developed IVF procedures that resulted in the birth of Louise Brown in nineteen seventy eight, the first baby conceived by this method. For this pioneering work, Edwards received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. Therefore, he is the scientist associated with devising IVF.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Focus on the phrase in vitro fertilisation and test tube baby, which are directly linked with Robert Edwards and Patrick Steptoe. Step 2: Recognise that Sir Frank Whittle is unrelated, as he designed jet engines. Step 3: Note that Edward Jenner is associated with vaccination against smallpox and Dr. Martin Cooper with mobile phones. Step 4: Therefore, Robert Edwards is the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Medical histories and Nobel Prize citations clearly state that Edwards work in reproductive biology made IVF possible. Louise Brown birth is often mentioned as a landmark event in medicine. None of the other names in the options appear in this context. This strong and specific association confirms that Robert Edwards should be selected.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Sir Frank Whittle: Engineer behind early jet engine patents, not a reproductive biologist.
• Edward Jenner: Developed the smallpox vaccine, an early triumph of immunisation.
• Dr. Martin Cooper: Associated with the development of the handheld mobile phone.
• James Watson: Co discoverer of the DNA double helix, but not the inventor of IVF techniques.

Common Pitfalls:
Because IVF relates to human reproduction, some students may think first of DNA scientists like Watson, but IVF is more about clinical techniques and embryology rather than gene structure. Others might recall only the name of the first test tube baby and not the scientist. To avoid confusion, remember the pairing Edwards and IVF as a key link in modern reproductive medicine.

Final Answer:
The IVF technique leading to the first test tube baby was devised by Robert Edwards.