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Advancing women's & reproductive health through research and education

Welcome to the Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, a pioneering institution with a rich legacy dating back to 1937. 

Our vision is clear: a world where everyone enjoys high-quality, evidence-based women's and reproductive healthcare. Through cutting-edge research and transformative teaching, we're committed to elevating the standard and accessibility of women's healthcare worldwide.

Explore our site to delve into impactful research, academic programs, and our global mission. Join us as we propel the future of women's health—one breakthrough at a time.

Study with WRH

Student studying on MSC in clinical embryology course

MSc in Clinical Embryology

This one-year, residential masters provides graduates with advanced theoretical and practical understanding of human reproductive biology, embryology, infertility and assisted reproductive technology (ART).

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Below, you will find information on the DPhil and MSc by Research in Women's and Reproductive Health programmes and the process to apply for them. You can also search for an exciting project for your DPhil or, if you have a project in mind, you can find a supervisor to contact to discuss your plans. Dr Karl Morten, Director of Graduate Studies.

Research degrees

WRH offer DPhil and MSc by Research in Women's and Reproductive Health programmes. You can also search for an exciting project for your DPhil or, if you have a project in mind, you can find a supervisor to contact to discuss your plans.

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Seminars

Departmental Seminars run at the John Radcliffe Hospital (and online) with internal and external speakers covering a range of topics (particularly related to our research themes). 

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WRH Research Themes

WRH comprises over 30 cutting-edge research groups spanning five core themes (listed below), each led by world-renowned experts in their respective fields. Many of these groups collaborate with other departments at the University of Oxford, as well as with universities and business partners globally.

Our findings strive to provide lasting benefits to women and families worldwide, shaping the future of healthcare. We extend heartfelt gratitude to all our supporters and funders, without whom this research would not be possible.

Latest article

Prof. Ahmed and Dr. Zaarour secure funds to develop ovarian cancer vaccine

Cancer

Professor Ahmed Ahmed and Dr Nancy Zaarour have received funding from Cancer Research UK to undertake preclinical testing of a preventative vaccine for ovarian cancer. The vaccine would teach the immune system to recognise and attack the earliest stages of ovarian cancer. The team will receive up to £600,000 for the study over the next three years to support lab research into the vaccine.

View our news page

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Study

We offer two postgraduate research programmes: a two year MSc by Research and a three year DPhil. These involve students undertaking independent research in their chosen area under the supervision of two or more experts in the field. In addition we offer a one year taught MSc in Clinical Embryology.

See our courses

Research

Our worldwide acclaimed research covers four main themes; Reproductive Medicine & Genetics, Maternal & Fetal Health, Cancer and Global Health. We also run a range of clinical trials from women who are not currently pregnant, to those in the first trimester of pregnancy and onward, as well as general women's health studies.

See our research groups

People

We have over 160 members in our department spread across eight sites in Oxford, consisting of post-graduate students, academic and research staff and professional staff. Our people are our life-blood and we are committed to ensuring they feel valued and nurtured as part of the Women's & Reproductive Health community.

See our team