The Center for Reproductive Sciences (CRS) is a premier hub of scientific discovery, clinical innovation, and mentorship in reproductive health. Our mission iis to unite and enable scientists, clinicians, and trainees in advancing fundamental discovery, translating research into innovations that improve reproductive health, and developing the next generation of leaders in reproductive science.
Founded in 1977, the UCSF Center for Reproductive Sciences has long been a model of interdisciplinary excellence. Today, it includes nearly 30 faculty from various departments, centers, and institutions and over 100 trainees, including graduate students, basic science postdoctoral fellows, and clinical fellows. The Center’s research spans the full spectrum of reproductive biology, from gametogenesis and implantation to placentation and epigenetics, while training the next generation of leaders in reproductive science. Our vision is to transform reproductive health across the lifespan and generations through pioneering science, interdisciplinary collaboration, and clinical innovation that enables healthier lives for all.
On July 5, 2025 Aleksandar Rajkovic, MD, PhD, was announced as Director of the UCSF Center for Reproductive Sciences. Read here.
To continue as a global leader in reproductive sciences, the strategic vision of the CRS will focus on:
- Innovative Research Expansion
- Enhanced Clinical Integration
- Mentorship & Opportunity
- Sustainable Growth
For almost 50 years, the UCSF Center for Reproductive Sciences has been at the forefront of discovery in reproductive science. We foster an environment where researchers use advanced approaches in genomics, epigenomics, and quantitative cell biology to generate new insights. By bringing together basic and clinical scientists, we accelerate the development of innovative diagnostics and treatments that advance reproductive health.
Sofia Ruau (Fuh Lab) reviewing poster with former CRS Director, Mario Conti on May 21, 2026. The study explores treatment in aggressive endometrial cancer.
Stanford instructor Dr. Dorien Feyaerts presenting on behalf of the Gaudillierre Lab.
Postdoctoral Fellow Julia do Amaral Gomes with the Robinson Lab shares her research showing how common disinfectant chemicals found in cleaning products can harm the developing brain of embryos during early pregnancy. In laboratory studies using rat embryos and human stem cells, the researchers found that higher levels of certain QACs caused birth defects, especially affecting the brain, spinal cord, and heart, suggesting these chemicals may pose risks to early fetal development.
Manon Miller, PhD Candidate in the Biomedical science program at UCSF presented research on ovarian cancer treatment from Dr. Fuh's Lab.
More than 100 trainees—including graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, and clinical fellows conduct research across the full spectrum of reproductive biology, from gametogenesis and implantation to placentation and epigenetics.
At the 2026 CRS Retreat, trainees showcased their work through poster presentations, highlighting innovative research and fostering collaboration across the Center.
CRS research spans reproductive endocrinology, developmental and implantation biology, reproductive oncology, and fetal origins of adult disease. Although mammalian models are primarily and widely adopted for these research programs, model organisms such as yeast, Drosophila, zebra fish, and frog models of reproduction are also used to elucidate specific aspects of gamete development and function. State of the art technologies in cell and molecular biology, nucleic acid and protein biochemistry are currently in use in CRS laboratories. A large number of engineered mouse models, as well as cultured cells, including human stem cells, are also available and exchanged among the CRS members.
