Ashlee Medica is a passionate postdoctoral researcher specialising in equine reproductive biotechnology. With a lifelong love for animals and a strong academic foundation, Ashlee pursued a Bachelor of Biotechnology at the University of Newcastle, NSW, followed by Honours and a PhD under the mentorship of Laureate Professor John Aitken and Associate Professor Zamira Gibb.

Ashlee’s PhD research focused on innovative approaches to improving equine fertility, combining cutting-edge science with practical applications in assisted reproductive technologies.

Currently, Ashlee works under Dr Aleona Swegen and Associate Professor Zamira Gibb, with a focus on making equine IVF commercially viable. A significant part of her research involves advancing sperm isolation techniques, selecting sperm that exhibit higher motility alongside reduced DNA damage and oxidative stress—key factors for successful fertilisation outcomes in reproductive technologies such as IVF and ICSI.

Through her work, Ashlee aims to bridge the gap between laboratory advancements and real-world industry applications in equine assisted reproductive technologies, helping to improve genetic diversity and breeding efficiency worldwide. Her research not only holds promise for equine reproduction but also contributes valuable insights to the broader field of reproductive biotechnology.