We are delighted to introduce Dr. Ester Anton, a speaker at the 18th NYRA Meeting. Dr. Anton is a researcher at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain, in the Genome Integrity and Reproductive Biology group. Her research focuses on male reproductive biology, including molecular and multi-omics analyses of sperm and the identification of biomarkers relevant to male fertility and assisted reproductive technologies. At the meeting, she will share her latest findings in this field, highlighting how fundamental sperm biology can inform clinical approaches to infertility.
1. When and why did you decide to work in the field of reproductive biology?
I discovered my passion for reproductive biology during an internship at an assisted reproduction center after my third year of university. What began as a last-minute search for a summer placement in my hometown turned into an unexpected opportunity. I was fortunate not only to find a position but also to be accepted despite the late timing, and the experience proved truly transformative. I vividly remember going home each day and excitedly sharing with my family and friends everything I had seen and learned, completely amazed by the field. By coincidence, the academic supervisor assigned to oversee my internship was also conducting research in reproductive biology. Her guidance deepened my curiosity even further and strengthened my connection to this discipline. She was also the first to encourage me to pursue a PhD, and she later became one of my PhD advisors.
- Could you share a moment of challenge in your career, and the lessons you learned from it?
Rather than recalling a single defining moment of challenge, what stands out to me when I look back is the ongoing effort to stay committed to this path despite the many obstacles that arose along the way. There have been countless times when the demands felt so overwhelming that stepping away seemed like the most reasonable choice. Yet the resilience to continue moving forward is, in my view, an essential trait for anyone pursuing research. Perseverance, even when everything seems to point in the opposite direction, has been one of the most important lessons I have learned.
- What has been the greatest success in your career so far?
For me, the greatest success in my career so far has been reaching a point where I can combine a stable job that I truly love with becoming a mother. Achieving this balance—both personally and professionally—has been one of the most meaningful accomplishments of my life.
- What advice would you give to young researchers?
The path of research is steep, and there will be many moments when it feels like you have reached your limit. My advice is to give it your all, but also to surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you and with whom you genuinely enjoy working. Success is collective, built on collaboration, support, and shared determination. A strong team truly makes all the difference.