The Future of Human Reproduction

Funded by Wellcome and running from 2022 to 2026, the Future of Human Reproduction was an innovative, interdisciplinary research programme exploring the cultural, ethical, legal and social challenges that emerge as technological advances fundamentally change the possibilities for human reproduction.

Embryonic stem cells

The Project's Vision

To push academic boundaries by developing new methods, research agendas and interdisciplinary ways of working to tackle the conceptual and ethical implications of a range of future reproductive scenarios likely to be technologically possible within a generation.

Major Research Themes

News

over of the Nuffield Council on Bioethics report: "Neural organoids: Ethical and governance considerations", displayed in dark text on a purple background

New report calls for stronger governance of neural organoid research

12 May 2026

Neural organoids offer real promise for brain research and treatment development - but significant gaps in the UK's regulatory framework mean this fast-moving field is advancing without agreed safeguards. A major new report from the Nuffield Council on Bioethics, developed with input from an expert working group and open call for evidence including Lancaster University's Professor Stephen Wilkinson, sets out nine recommendations for government on how to address this

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Professor Stephen Wilkinson appointed to Nuffield Council on Bioethics Neural Organoids Working Group

14 August 2025

Professor Stephen Wilkinson, Principal Investigator for The Future of Human Reproduction project, has been appointed to the Nuffield Council on Bioethics expert working group on neural organoids.
Cover of report

What critical issues need to be considered before in vitro gametogenesis (IVG) in human reproduction becomes a reality?

25 July 2025

Critical questions need addressing before any clinical use of in vitro gametogenesis (IVG), says a new report by a Lancaster University-based research project.
Photo of Dr Laura O

Dr Laura O'Donovan chosen for NCoB Oversight Group on human embryo research public dialogue

1 July 2025

We are pleased to announce that Future of Human Reproduction member Dr Laura O'Donovan has been chosen to be part of the Oversight Group for the Nuffield Council on Bioethics’ upcoming public dialogue. 
Doctor in white coat with image of a uterus

First UK birth after womb transplant is a medical breakthrough – but raises important ethical questions

16 April 2025

A baby girl named Amy Isabel has become the first child in the UK to be born to a mother who has had a womb transplant. Amy is one of around 65 children worldwide born as a result of pioneering research into the procedure.

 

However, before this new treatment is offered more widely, complex questions will need to be answered about how it will be resourced, how wombs will be procured and who will get access to the treatment.
Image of Stephen Wilkinson, Distinguished Professor of Bioethics at Lancaster University.

Horizon Scanning and the Future of Human Reproduction team

25 February 2025

Stephen Wilkinson, PI for the Future of Human Reproduction research project, has been appointed to the Nuffield Council on Bioethics Horizon Scanning Advisory Group. Congratulations!

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