Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Verena Nordhoff Group leader Reproductive Biologist (AGRBM) & Senior Clinical Embryologist (ESHRE) Tel.: +49 (0)251 83-54803 E-Mail: PD Dr. Verena Nordhoff ResearchGate
After completing my studies in Biology and earning my doctorate (Dr. rer. nat.) at the University of Münster, I spent several months as a postdoctoral researcher in the United States. Upon returning to Münster, I was offered the opportunity to join the CeRA as head of the IVF laboratory – a role I was delighted to take on. Since 2001, I have been working as a Senior Clinical Embryologist, responsible for the full range of assisted reproduction techniques.
Within my research group, we investigate the impact of culture media and media supplements on preimplantation development in the mouse model. Clinically, our focus lies on improving the selection of suitable sperm for ICSI, particularly from testicular tissue (TESE). We are also in the context of ReproTrack.MS exploring novel approaches to assess the developmental potential of individual oocytes and the resulting embryos, with a particular interest in miRNA-based signatures.
My interest in reproductive biology developed while I was studying for my Master's degree at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Hanover. During this time, I conducted extensive research into the maturation kinetics of domestic pig oocytes. Embryology fascinated me so much that I decided to do my PhD in this subject. As part of my doctoral studies in Dr Verena Nordhoff's research group, I investigated how different culture media influence the development of pre-implantation embryos in mice. In 2016, I became head of the mouse embryo laboratory at the Central Animal Experimentation Facility of the Faculty of Medicine. My work focused on redeveloping mouse colonies in the context of experimental animal husbandry. Since 2021, I have worked as a biologist in the IVF department at CeRA, and I am currently undertaking further training to become a certified specialist in human reproductive biology. My role involves providing clinical patient care and actively participating in research projects.
Dr. med. Janice K. Jeschke Clinician Scientist E-Mail: Janice Jeschke
After completing my undergraduate studies in biomedical engineering at Rutgers University in New Jersey, USA, I relocated to Germany to pursue a career in medicine. My research focus shifted towards reproductive medicine and I investigated the impact of steroid hormones on ion channels in human sperm for my medical thesis at the CeRA. As a clinical scientist, I am currently balancing my clinical duties in the department of obstetrics and gynecology with postdoctoral research within ReproTrack.MS elucidating the molecular mechanisms orchestrating fertilization and implantation. We hope to better understand these early, critical events leading to a pregnancy in order to ultimately develop innovative diagnostic tools and therapies for families affected by infertility.
Dr. rer. nat. Tim Pock Reproductive Biologist (AGRBM) Scientist Tel.: +49 (0)251 83 54803 E-Mail: Tim Pock ResearchGate
