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Michela Ciccarelli

Michela Ciccarelli

Assistant ProfessorTheriogenology (Reproductive Medicine & Surgery)    

Dr. Ciccarelli originates from a small town situated in the heart of Italy. Her passion for animals motivated her to pursue a degree in Veterinary Clinical Sciences, where she was first introduced to the field of Theriogenology. Her keen interest in reproductive biology and gametogenesis later brought her to the United States, where she completed her Residency and Master’s in Comparative Theriogenology under the mentorship of Dr. Ahmed Tibary. In 2018, she earned the Diplomate of the American College of Theriogenologists, following which she joined Dr. Jon Oatley’s lab at the School of Molecular Bioscience, Center for Reproductive Biology at Washington State University. It was at this institution where she later received her PhD in Reproductive Biology, during which she conducted research on Spermatogonia Stem Cells and their regenerative abilities when transplanted into the testes of NANOS2 knockout animals, a suitable model for restoring spermatogenesis. Following her PhD, Dr. Ciccarelli undertook a postdoctoral researcher position with Dr. Oatley, investigating the establishment of spermatogenesis in the perinatal period in the testes of higher-order mammalian models, such as pigs. In 2021, Dr. Ciccarelli joined the College of Veterinary Medicine at WSU as an assistant professor-tenure-track in Comparative Theriogenology. Her current research focuses on the study of human infertility, utilizing higher-order animal models. In addition to her research, Dr. Ciccarelli is actively involved in teaching and clinical work.

Education

  • PhD, Washington State University, 2020
  • MS, Washington State University, 2017
  • DVM, Camerino University, 2012

Certifications  

  • Board certified, American College of Theriogenologists (Diplomate ACT), 2018

Research Interests

  • Spermatogonial stem cells biology
  • The link between fertility and general health
  • Gene editing using CRISPR/Cas9 to improve animal health and welfare
  • Assisted reproductive technologies

Publications

Professional Service

  • Member, International Embryo Technology society, 2019-present
  • Member, American College of Theriogenologists, 2018-present
  • Member, Society for the Study of Reproduction, 2017-present
  • Member, Society for Theriogenology, 2015-present

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