We were pleased to host A/Prof. Reza Nosrati from Monash University for our April webinar, where he presented on:

From Engineering Reproduction to Navigating the Academic Path

Presentation Highlights

Paper-based Sperm Assays – Low-cost diagnostic tools detecting live sperm motility and concentration.
AI-Powered Morphology Analysis – Real-time, label-free sperm classification using ensemble machine learning.
Virtual Staining Models – Predicting acrosome integrity and DNA quality without chemical dyes.
Sperm Biophysics in 3D Environments – Studying motility, curvature sensing, and rheological effects using microfluidic and imaging platforms.

Academic Reflections – Lessons from PhD to PI: research vision, time management, and building strong lab culture.

Research Applications

  • Real-time sperm selection tools for fertility treatment

  • Single-cell analysis for reproductive diagnostics

  • Understanding sperm transport and fertilisation mechanisms

  • New directions for culture media design and embryo development

  • Career strategies for early-career researchers in STEM

Full Abstract

This talk will explore how microfluidic technologies and AI are transforming reproductive science and assisted reproduction. I will present our recent work using biomimetic microfluidic platforms and machine learning to uncover how sperm interact with the female reproductive tract, enabling smarter sperm analysis and selection for fertility treatment. In the second part, I will share insights from my academic journey –from PhD to postdoc to leading an independent research group – including lessons learned, key challenges, and tips for navigating the transition into academia. The talk aims to spark both scientific and career-focused discussions, and I look forward to hearing your own experiences and perspectives.

About A/Prof. Reza Nosrati

Reza Nosrati is an NHMRC Fellow, Associate Professor, and Director of the Applied Microfluidics & Bioengineering (AMB) Lab at Monash University. He completed his PhD at the University of Toronto and held an NSERC Postdoctoral Fellowship at Queen’s University before joining Monash.

His research focuses on small-scale fluid mechanics with applications in cell biology and reproductive medicine. Internationally recognised for pioneering work in microfluidic fertility technologies, Reza has authored over 60 peer-reviewed publications, holds 11 patents, and has been featured in Nature Communications, Advanced Science, Science Advances, and Nature Reviews Urology. His work has appeared in over 200 media outlets and earned multiple awards, including the 2023 Dean’s Award for Research Excellence, 2021 Newcastle Emerging Research Leader Award, and 2016 Colton Medal.

Visit the AMB Lab website for more on his research.

Missed the Live Session?

The full recording is now available on YouTube.

Interested in Microfluidics?

We offer a wide range of microfluidic tools and materials for cell biology, diagnostics, and reproductive research.

👉 Explore our product range or contact us at info@smartmcs.com.au.