Meet our Amazing Team!

Dr Krystene DiPaola, MD

Rachel Ziders, TS(ABB) -Senior Embryologist, Lab Supervisor

Rachel has been our Embryologist and Lab Supervisor since our practice opened in 2019. Rachel strives to create a more compassionate IVF experience for our patients which includes comprehensive patient education and transparent communication. She attended the University at Buffalo and obtained her BS in Biology and a BA in History. She has been an Embryologist since 2017. She has trained along side Dr. Tony Anderson in various advanced techniques and went on to obtain her Board Certification in Embryology in 2022. Among her other accomplishments, she has established an ongoing affiliation with the University at Buffalo in creating an Undergraduate Internship Program.

Rachel’s calling has always been Women’s Health. Prior to starting her career as an Embryologist, she worked in clinical care at Buffalo OBGYN for 7 years. During this time, she volunteered with a surgical a mission group and was privileged with the experience of helping underserved women by assisting in various OBGYN surgeries. Her passion for Women’s Health continues to grow as she helps families in their IVF journey.

Melissa Zaczek, Embryologist, B.A Biology

As an experienced embryologist with a background in laboratory leadership, I am dedicated to supporting individuals and couples on their fertility journey through scientific excellence, precision, and compassionate care. My work is grounded in a deep respect for the life-changing significance of assisted reproductive technologies and the trust patients place in our team.

Prior to focusing exclusively on embryology, I served as a laboratory manager, where I oversaw quality control, regulatory compliance, workflow optimization, and team development. This leadership experience strengthened my commitment to maintaining the highest standards of laboratory practice, ensuring both clinical excellence and a safe, efficient environment for patients and staff.

In my role as an embryologist, I specialize in all aspects of IVF laboratory procedures, including gamete handling, fertilization techniques, embryo culture, and cryopreservation. I am passionate about continuous improvement, staying current with emerging technologies and evidence-based practices to optimize outcomes.

What motivates me most is knowing that behind every embryo is a hopeful story. I approach my work with both meticulous attention to detail and genuine empathy, understanding the emotional journey that accompanies fertility treatment. It is an honor to contribute to such an important chapter in our patients’ lives. Behind every sample and every embryo is a deeply personal story, and I am honored to help families grow.

Alyssa - Physician Assistant

Alyssa Raichel is our second Physician Assistant to join the team here at YFF. Alyssa was born and raised in Buffalo, NY. She started her medical studies at SUNY Brockport where she graduated with a Bachelors in Biology and double minored in Chemistry and Pre-Professional Health. Following her undergraduate studies, Alyssa went on to graduate PA school from D’Youville University, where she obtained her dual BS/MS degree in Physician Assistant studies. She is a nationally certified Physician Assistant currently licensed in the state of New York.

Alyssa has always known she wanted to work in the field of Women’s Health, and shares the teams passion for providing high quality care to patients of all backgrounds. She is so excited to join Dr. DiPaola and the team on their family building journey!

Liz - Physician Assistant

Elizabeth A. Smith, MPAS, PA-C, RDMS

Liz grew up in the Hudson Valley region of New York. She completed her Associate of Science degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography in 2009 at Tacoma Community College in Tacoma. VA. She later returned to school and completed a combined Bachelor and Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies in 2019 at D'Youville University in Buffalo, NY. She has a love for women's health and reproductive endocrinology and is excited to join the YFF team and utilize both her clinical and sonography skills to help others.

When she is not at YFF, she enjoys spending time with her family, vacationing in the Caribbean, cooking, and outdoor activities.

Krystie - Physician Assistant

Krystie Allen, PA-C, is a board-certified Physician Assistant specializing in Reproductive Endocrinology. Born and raised in Western New York, she graduated summa cum laude from D’Youville University. She brings valuable experience in both primary care and emergency medicine, allowing her to provide comprehensive, whole-person care to her patients.

Krystie is passionate about guiding individuals and families through their fertility journey with compassion and personalized attention. She believes in taking the time to listen carefully, educate thoroughly, and tailor treatment plans to reflect each patient’s unique goals and story. Her approach centers on creating a supportive, welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable, respected, and empowered throughout every stage of care.

As a wife and mother of two, Krystie understands the emotional complexity of building a family and the importance of thoughtful, individualized support during this deeply personal journey.

Outside of the office, she enjoys camping, riding ATVs, cheering on the Buffalo Bills, exploring new restaurants with family and friends, and visiting Disney World.