Research
Reproductive science and medicine encompasses endocrinology, gonad development, gametogenesis and embryogenesis, and reproductive tract biology. Research in these areas informs fertility and infertility, contraception, infectious diseases, pregnancy, fetal origins of adult disease, transgenerational epigenetic inheritance, aging and reproductive pathologies. In addition, reproductive science has broad general health consequences because gonadal hormones regulate downstream organ systems.
The research expertise of Northwestern University Center for Reproductive Science faculty members coalesces into six specializations:
- Development & Differentiation
- Fertility & Aging
- Disease & Infection
- Neuro & Endocrine Actions
- Bioengineering
- Genetics, Genomics & Epigenomics
This research encompasses numerous cells and tissues (gametes, gonads, embryos, endocrine axis, reproductive tract, vascular and immune systems), model organisms (cell lines, Xenopus, C. elegans, mouse, cow, pig, nonhuman primate, human), reproductive physiology across the lifespan (development and aging) and reproductive conditions and diseases (infertility, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, fibroids, infectious disease). Moreover, our faculty employ a suite of innovative and cutting-edge technologies to advance these research areas.
The center's infrastructure provides a rich intellectual and physical hub of data clubs, seminars, workshops and summits in reproductive science and medicine to showcase our research and cutting-edge technologies. Join the CRS today and become a part of these events.
Research Support
The Feinberg School of Medicine Center for Reproductive Science is committed to training the next generation of research, clinical and thought leaders in our field. Browse resources that support trainees' professional and personal development.