Dr. Andrew Sharkey

Biography

Andrew Sharkey is a researcher at Cambridge Reproduction University with a keen focus on maternal-embryonic interactions that are crucial for achieving successful implantation and pregnancy. His specific areas of interest delve into the molecular mechanisms that underlie embryo attachment to the endometrium, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of infertility, and the development of novel contraceptive approaches. Additionally, Sharkey investigates how fetally-derived placental cells interact with the maternal immune system in the uterus to ensure a successful co-existence between the mother and fetus. He has identified that when this system fails, it can lead to abnormal placental development and result in common pregnancy-related diseases such as pre-eclampsia, miscarriage, and fetal growth restriction. He is a member of the Centre for Trophoblast Research at Cambridge, where he also engages in teaching. In his teaching capacities, he lectures on the Part 2 course addressing implantation and early development in the Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience (PDN), supervises the Endocrinology and Reproductive Sciences module for pre-clinical medicine students, and acts as a demonstrator in histopathology practicals in the Pathology department.

Research Interests