Hilde Aardema

Dr. Hilde Aardema is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, leading the Reproduction Laboratory within the Department of Population Health Sciences - Farm Animal Health since 2019. Her research focuses on early life development, particularly the impact of maternal conditions on oocytes and embryos using bovine IVF models. Key areas include metabolic influences (e.g., energy balance, obesity) and microplastic exposure effects. She collaborates with the IRAS toxicology group on microplastics research and leads the 'Happy Healthy Cow' project developing health monitoring sensors for livestock.

• Education/Qualifications: Veterinarian, ECAR diplomate (European College of Animal Reproduction)
• Research Themes: Maternal environment impacts, metabolic regulation in reproduction, microplastic toxicity, and sustainable ruminant health

Her work bridges veterinary and human reproductive health through comparative models (cow/human similarities). Awards span student competitions (IETS, AETE, VFS) and grants (Tebu-bio). She teaches reproduction courses at the Veterinary Professional level and actively seeks collaborations.

Research facilities include the Utrecht University farm 'Tolakker' and Utrecht Science Park laboratories. Current projects emphasize translational applications of bovine IVF models for human periconception studies and animal welfare advancements.