Preamble
Reproductive Biotechnologies, the applied aspects of reproductive biology, has important economical, societal and medical implications. In human medicine, the application is mainly as a treatment for infertility with over 5 million children born as a result of this technology since the advent of in vitro fertilization in 1977. In livestock species over half a million embryos are transferred each year. Among these, a rapidly increasing proportion of embryos are produced in vitro. The production of embryos in the laboratory requires considerable manual dexterity, expertise and experience as well as theoretical knowledge and problem solving skills. There is a number of career opportunities associated with reproductive biotechnologies that range from andrologist, embryologist, sales, marketing and product development to regulatory affairs.
Objectives
Provide exposure to various embryo production and related settings as well as hands- on laboratory experience. The programs will consist of laboratory training in bovine in vitro embryo production, courses with focused in reproductive biotechnologies and placement in human IVF clinics.
The program is tailored to students graduated from a bachelor degree with interest in Reproductive Biotechnologies and in working on the reproductive side of the health science field.
A background with some courses in embryology and/or reproductive biology is an asset, but it is NOT mandatory.
Program Components
- 1 year 'Masters of Biomedical Sciences' program in Reproductive Biotechonologies with a mandatory start in the Fall semester
- 4.0 Course Credits as for MBS requirements
Mandatory courses:
- BIOM*6110 Advanced Microscopy F [0.50]
- BIOM*6130 Vertebrate Developmental Biology F [0.5]
- BIOM*6602 Special Topics in Reproductive Biology and Biotechnology F/W [0.5]
- BIOM*4110 Mammalian Reproductive Biology W [0.5] – If not already taken during the Undergraduate program
- BIOM*6900 Research Project in Biomedical Sciences S [1.0]
Optional courses: to be discussed with your assigned advisor once accepted into the program
- In house IVF training using the bovine oocytes/embryos as models
- Up to 1 week placement -this might be extended- in at least two different IVF clinics in the GTA
- Visit to Semex
- Observation of farm animals AI/ovum pick-up performed in the field
Note: Prior to applying for the MBS program, interested students should contact Dr. Favetta.
Contact
Laura A. Favetta, Ph.D.
Department of Biomedical Sciences, Rm.3620
E-mail: lfavetta@uoguelph.ca / Phone: 519-824 4120 ext 56212