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.
Latest news
Education
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 publications
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Journal article
Checkley W. et al, (2024), Lancet Glob Health, 12, e815 - e825
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Journal article
Donnez J. et al, (2024), Hum Reprod
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Journal article
Awoyemi T. et al, (2024), Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, 11
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Journal article
Dombi E. et al, (2024), Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology, 12
Latest article
Exploring the Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Fetal-Maternal Communication and Reproductive Disorders
16 April 2024
In women’s and reproductive health, there is a growing body of work suggesting that extracellular vesicles have a critical role in communications between the fetus and mother, and also between the reproductive organs and the rest of the body. This is believed to be relevant to a range of pathological conditions, including complications in pregnancy such as preeclampsia, endometriosis, and infertility.
Discover more
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.
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.
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.