Integrated Training in Reproductive Sciences

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This Training Program prepares physicians and scientists for investigative careers in reproductive biology. During its 35 year history, the training grant has supported over 100 postdoctoral fellows who have gone on to successful careers in academia and industry. The program is multifaceted and broadly based. Research training is provided by 17 members of the Center for Reproductive Sciences (CRS) who hold faculty positions in 8 departments. The Faculty have a broad range of scientific expertise and direct research programs in reproductive biology, including: peimplantation embryo development and stem cell biology, germ cell development, meiosis, follicular maturation, mechanisms of hormone action; molecular genetics, steroid biosynthesis and action, endometrial and placental function, endocrine regulation of normal and abnormal reproductive function, immune function in the maternal/fetal interface, basic and clinical studies of PCOS, endometriosis, preeclampsia, and preterm birth. Technologies available include: human and mouse embryology, embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells, transgenic mice, Drosophila stem and germ cell development, yeast models of meiosis, human genetics and genomics, state-of-the-art DNA and RNA sequencing, protein/nucleic acid interaction technologies, single cell RNA sequencing, state-of-the-art techonologies probing epigenetic marks and chromatin structure and non coding RNAs, microarrays and proteomics, bioinformatics, mass spectrometric analysis of proteins and small molecules, cutting edge microscopy and imaging technologies, in vitro fertilization, whole animal physiology, prospective clinical investigation. Following formal application to the CRS, trainees are selected by an Admissions Committee. Postdoctoral training will be offered to PhD fellows in related disciplines, and to clinically trained MD scientists with prior specialty training. In addition to their research work, trainees take prescribed academic courses, seminars, journal clubs, conferences, and seminars on the responsible conduct of research. Trainees learn to design and execute basic and translational research projects, analyze data and write manuscripts for prominent peer-reviewed journals. Trainees prepare and submit grant applications for extra-mural funding, present seminars in reproductive biology, and learn how to mentor summer students working in the lab, preparing them for independent academic careers. Trainee academic development is assured by mentoring committees through individual development plans; success of trainees and the training program is tracked through surveys of alumni. The strengths of the program include 1.) the diverse skills and interests of the faculty, 2.) the interactiveness of the faculty 3.) our substantial laboratory and core facility resources 4.) the outstanding environment for research in reproduction, development, endocrinology, cell biology, genetics and related areas at UCSF and 5.) the commitment to the highest standard of conduct in science.