Dr Matthew Cotterill

Profile

I joined the University of Leeds as a Lecturer of Clinical Embryology in 2017. I hold a PhD in gene function during the development of ovine oocytes and ovarian follicles, which I earned from the University of Leeds in 2009.

My professional career in Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) began over 15 years ago when I joined the Reproduction and Early Development team at the University of Leeds. My research during this time focused on the interactions of oocytes and their supporting cumulus cells.

Prior to joining the University of Leeds, I gained valuable clinical experience as a Clinical Embryologist in a private fertility centre from 2012 to 2016. At the University of Leeds, I teach on distance learning (CEDL) and full-time (CEART) MSc Clinical Embryology courses, as well as clinical embryology to BSc medical students.

Responsibilities

• Module Manager
• Lecturer
• Tutor

Research interests

As an enthusiast in the area of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, I am driven by an ongoing interest in exploring its potential. My current research interests aim to address the following:

1. The impact of AI technology on assessment, and the requirements for policy and assessment reform  

2. What are the best practices for using AI technology in education?  

3. How can AI technology be used to enhance the student experience?  

4. What innovative teaching and learning strategies can be developed using AI technology? 

Qualifications

• PhD Early Development and Reproduction (2009)
• BSc (Hons) Molecular Biology (2004)

Professional memberships

• The Association of Reproductive and Clinical Scientists (ARCS)

Student education

As an academic staff member, I have a diverse range of responsibilities that center around the delivery and management of teaching programmes in clinical embryology. My role encompasses leadership, curriculum design, module management, assessment design and marking, mentorship, supervision, and practical design.

Currently, I serve as a Lecturer in Clinical Embryology where I deliver lectures, tutorials, and practical laboratory skills training sessions for the full-time CEART and part-time distance learning CEDL MSc programmes. I also design and develop the curriculum for five shared, taught modules across both programs, including exams and assessed coursework. Furthermore, I am the module manager for two of those modules  In addition to teaching postgraduate students, I also teach clinical embryology to BSc medical students.

In my capacity as a personal tutor, I provide guidance and mentorship to CEART and CEDL students to support their academic development. Moreover, I actively participate in programme management committees for both courses.

My approach to teaching is underpinned by a commitment to professional development through scholarship and pedagogy. As such, I engage in ongoing professional development opportunities to ensure that I provide the highest quality teaching experience to my students. My dedication to teaching excellence and my expertise in clinical embryology make me a valuable asset to the academic community.

Research groups and institutes

• Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine