Yeste Oliveras, Marc

Marc Yeste Oliveras is a Full Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Girona, where he also serves as Director of the Institute of Agri-Food Technology (INTEA) and Director of the TechnoSperm Reproduction Biotechnology Centre. He is affiliated with the Faculty of Medicine and teaches across multiple faculties, including Nursing, Sciences, and the School of Engineering, as well as in Master’s programs in Molecular Biology, Biomedicine, and Food Biotechnology. He has held visiting professorships at the University of Oxford, University of São Paulo, and several Spanish universities.

Education:

• BSc in Biology, University of Girona
• MSc in Biotechnology
• PhD in Cell Biology (European Doctorate), University of Girona
• Law Degree, UNED (with Extraordinary Academic Award)
• BSc in Political Science and Sociology, UNED
• Philosophy studies, University of Girona

Marc Yeste's research focuses on cellular and reproductive biology across mammalian species, including humans, pigs, horses, cattle, sheep, cats, and dogs. His work explores sperm physiology, capacitation, cryopreservation of gametes and embryos, oocyte in vitro maturation, fertility preservation, reproductive aging, and the genetic basis of infertility. He investigates sperm-epithelial interactions in the epididymis and oviduct, microbial contamination in semen, and oocyte activation deficiency. His research integrates molecular, cellular, and biotechnological approaches to improve reproductive outcomes.

The analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on reproductive biotechnology, with recurring themes in sperm cryopreservation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, and fertility preservation. His work bridges animal and human reproduction, often applying findings from veterinary models to human clinical contexts. There is a clear trend toward translational research, biomarker discovery, and the application of omics technologies in reproductive science.

Scientific Awards and Recognitions:

• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)
• Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology (FRSB)
• Fellow of the Young Academy of Europe (FYAE)
• Chartered Biologist (CBiol)
• Chartered Scientist (CSci)
• Chartered Science Teacher (CSciTeach)
• I3 Certificate for Research Intensification (2019)
• Member of the Royal European Academy of Doctors
• Accredited Full Professor by AQU and ANECA

Marc Yeste has been actively involved in research funding and academic mentorship. He has participated in over 100 competitive research projects, including EU programs (FP7, H2020, Horizon Europe), and has served as Principal Investigator in over 40. He has directed 16 PhD theses and 30 master's theses, and supervised 15 postdoctoral researchers and over 60 undergraduate students. He has also evaluated research proposals and academic positions for national and international agencies.

He leads the Research Group in Animal and Human Reproductive Biotechnology and is the scientific director of TechnoSperm, a center dedicated to advancing reproductive technologies. His editorial leadership includes roles as Editor-in-Chief of Animal Reproduction Science and Senior Editor at Scientific Reports (Nature), reflecting his influence in the scientific community.