Dr Aleona Swegen is an ARC DECRA Fellow at the University of Newcastle’s Centre for Reproductive Science and member of the Hunter Medical Research Institute Infertility and Reproduction Research Program.

A veterinarian by training, she completed her PhD in reproductive biology in 2017 and has since established herself as a leading researcher in reproductive biotechnology. Her translational research addresses critical challenges in both animal and human fertility, with a vision to apply cutting edge reproductive solutions to transform livestock industries, human IVF practice and wildlife conservation.

Dr Swegen’s innovative work focuses on enhancing fertility outcomes, particularly through her groundbreaking SpermSafe technology. This novel sperm storage medium protects cells during IVF procedures, improving motility and reducing DNA damage to increase successful pregnancy rates.

With extensive experience at prestigious institutions including the University of Oxford and the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Dr Swegen has secured over $3 million in competitive research grants. Her work bridges laboratory research and practical applications through numerous industry collaborations including livestock breeders, veterinary clinics, thoroughbred and polo horse studs, and biotechnology companies. These partnerships have enabled Dr Swegen to ensure her inventions are targeted to clinical demand and rapidly utilised to advance breeding practices.