Dr. Bart Leemans is an EBVS® European Veterinary Specialist in Equine Reproduction and Assistant Professor in the Department of Clinical Sciences (Equine Sciences) at Utrecht University. He is internationally recognized for his research on equine reproductive biology, with a particular focus on sperm physiology, oviduct function, fertilization, and assisted reproductive technologies.

After graduating as a veterinarian from Ghent University in 2010, Dr. Leemans completed a PhD in equine reproduction at the same institution (2010–2015), where he investigated the unique mechanisms of fertilization in the horse. He subsequently held a postdoctoral position at Texas A&M University before returning to Ghent University as a postdoctoral researcher. In 2019, he joined Utrecht University, where he is now Assistant Professor and combines clinical work, teaching, and research within the Equine Reproduction service.

Dr. Leemans' research has evolved from fundamental studies on stallion sperm capacitation and sperm–oviduct interactions toward translational research aimed at improving equine assisted reproduction. His publications have helped explain why conventional IVF remains unsuccessful in horses and have contributed to the development of advanced laboratory models of the equine oviduct. More recently, his work has focused on equine oviduct epithelial cell culture systems, embryo–maternal interactions, factors influencing the success of OPU-ICSI embryo transfer, embryo cryopreservation, and the clinical management of embryo donor mares. His current interests bridge basic reproductive biology and practical clinical applications, with the goal of improving fertility and pregnancy outcomes in mares.