Richard M. Schultz

Research Interests

I have a long-standing interest in mammalian gametogenesis and embryogenesis that encompasses more than 45 years. During my professional career I have acquired a broad understanding of the reproductive sciences that range from basic research to clinical applications. My research has focused on the role and function of small RNAs in oocyte and preimplantation embryo development; regulation of the transition from mRNA stability to instability during oocyte maturation; the egg-to-embryo transition, and in particular reprogramming of gene expression using a maternal-inherited transcription machinery; the effect of female maternal age on the incidence of aneuploidy; and the impact of ART procedures on embryos and offspring using a mouse model with an emphasis on epigenetic changes. More recently my interests have centered on formation and maintenance of the ovarian reserve.