Dra. Mariona Rius
Head of the IVF Laboratory at Fertty. She currently teaches the Master’s Degree in Assisted Human Reproduction Psychology (UB) and the International Master’s Degree in Reproductive Medicine (UAB).
“I am fascinated by the perseverance of some people and the trust they place in us. I feel very responsible and grateful to them. That’s why when they finally get to be mothers and fathers, the reward I feel is immense.”
Mariona Rius studied Biology at the University of Barcelona, where she graduated with the qualification of excellent and Extraordinary End of Course Award. Her great interest in human reproduction led her to pursue a PhD in Cell Biology at the Autonomous University of Barcelona, specialising in Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis.
She currently teaches the Master’s Degree in Assisted Human Reproduction Psychology (UB) and the International Master’s Degree in Reproductive Medicine (UAB).
She is a member of scientific societies such as the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology and the Association for the Study of Reproductive Biology, where she is a member of the Genetics and Cryobiology Interest Groups.
She has worked as an embryologist for more than a decade and undergoes continuous training in the latest in vitro fertilisation techniques.
She is the Head of the IVF Laboratory at Fertty.
Interview
WHY DID YOU BECOME A SPECIALIST IN REPRODUCTIVE IMMUNOLOGY?
It was always clear to me that I would study health, but it was in the last year of my degree that I discovered Reproductive Biology. From that moment onwards I had a very clear goal: to become an embryologist and work in an IVF laboratory. But for that I had to specialise even more and I got it by doing my PhD.
WHY ARE YOU PROUD TO WORK AT FERTTY?
Because here I feel at home, but with a professionalism and a level of demand that motivates me to achieve the best results. And I love the “positive motherhood” message. This is how we must approach this path.
WHAT IS YOUR ATTITUDE TO PATIENT MANAGEMENT?
I like to talk to patients and try to explain in the best way the processes we carry out in the laboratory. I always keep in mind that for patients it is an unknown treatment. There is also a very important emotional component: we are talking about their future children! I believe we must accompany them humanely throughout the whole process.
HAVE THERE BEEN PATIENTS WHO INSPIRE YOU?
Constantly. I am fascinated by the perseverance of some people and the trust they place in us. I feel very responsible and grateful to them. That’s why when they finally get to be mothers and fathers the reward I feel is huge.
HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR FREE TIME?
For me the most important thing is my family and therefore I try to spend as much time as possible with them. I am passionate about culture. I like to go to the theatre, attend concerts or visit exhibitions. I relax by playing the piano. Years ago, I studied music at the Music Conservatory. And I also love to escape from the city and breathe fresh air in the mountains.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
I am a meticulous person. I value simplicity and order. I empathise with people and I like to be part of a team that has a good working environment. Oh, and I think it is essential to maintain a positive attitude towards life.