Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) and the Eugin Group have officially renewed their collaboration in the Eugin-UPF Chair of Assisted Human Reproduction, solidifying their commitment to advancing research, knowledge transfer, and training in the field of human reproduction. The signing ceremony took place on May 17th in Barcelona, marking the continuation of a successful partnership that commenced in 2019.

Under the guidance of Francesc Calafell, professor in the Department of Medicine and Life Sciences at UPF, the Chair aims to tackle contemporary issues and demographic challenges related to age-related complexities in parenthood. With the extension of the collaboration until 2025, both organizations are set to undertake a range of activities to achieve their shared objectives.

Research will be a significant focus of the Chair’s agenda, encompassing the definition and development of research lines, the promotion of joint doctoral theses, and collaboration on obtaining research projects. This will foster scientific advancements and drive innovation in the field of assisted reproduction.

In addition to research, the Chair will actively engage in dissemination and knowledge transfer activities. Exhibition and outreach events will provide platforms for sharing insights and findings, while research results will be commercialized to create a tangible impact. The promotion of research publications and the exchange of knowledge across different work areas will further facilitate the dissemination of valuable information.

Training activities will play a vital role in nurturing the next generation of experts in assisted reproduction. To this end, the Chair will establish pre and postdoctoral scholarships, recognize outstanding final projects and papers through awards, and offer internship programs in companies. Furthermore, cooperation between the Chair and educational institutions will enhance the design and teaching of courses, ensuring comprehensive and up-to-date education in the field.

Reflecting on the fruitful collaboration thus far, Eduardo González, CEO of Eugin, expressed his satisfaction with the results achieved and the opportunity to explore novel and highly relevant topics for the field of assisted reproduction. Francesc Calafell, Director of the Chair, highlighted their aim to reach a broader audience, emphasizing the importance of disseminating accurate and comprehensive information about assisted reproduction.

This renewal comes after the first three years of collaboration were shaped by the profound impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the significant role of genetics in reproductive health. Delays in decision-making and the interruption of assisted reproduction treatments during the pandemic had emotional consequences for individuals and couples, highlighting the need for support and accessible information. Furthermore, the exploration of preventive medicine and genetic testing, such as expanded carrier screening, has underscored the potential to reduce the prevalence of serious genetic diseases before pregnancy.

With the renewal of their collaboration, Eugin and UPF are poised to continue their pioneering work in the field of assisted reproduction. Their joint efforts will drive research, knowledge dissemination, and training, ultimately contributing to the advancement of reproductive healthcare and the fulfillment of individuals’ dreams of parenthood.