College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Training Program

RDSTP - Scope and Nature of Program: Research into animal and human reproductive biology has widespread implications for human health. The Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Training Program (RDSTP) at Michigan State University focuses on training young scientists to pursue research in High Program Priority Topic Areas identified by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Fertility and Infertility (FI) Branch and the Gynecologic Health and Disease (GHD) Branch. These target areas include the Maternal to Zygotic Transition, Pregnancy Loss, Implantation, Epigenetic Basis of Reproductive Diseases and Disorders, Ovarian Aging and Reproductive Decline, Role of Tissue/Cellular Microbiomes in Reproductive Health and Disease, Preservation of Fertility, Uterine Fibroids, and Endometriosis/Adenomyosis. Additionally, the focus of the training program also encompasses three of the five broad research themes that are highlighted in the NICHD Strategic Plan 2020, namely Understanding the Molecular, Cellular, and Structural Basis of Development, Promoting Gynecologic, Andrologic, and Reproductive Health, and Setting the Foundation for Healthy Pregnancies and Lifelong Wellness. To provide training related to these NICHD target areas, RDSTP trainees are selected from among four Areas of Specialization: 1) Gonad and Gamete Biology, 2) Early Embryo Development, 3) Reproductive Tract Biology and Gynecological Pathologies, and 4) Environmental Factors in Reproduction, with multiple Trainers offering research training in each area. Trainee projects should fit into one of the four Areas of Specialization.

NICHD Strategic Plan Research Themes and Objectives

Co-Directors
Dr. Asgi Fazleabas 
MSU Foundation Professor 
Associate Chair for Research 
Director, Center for Women’s Health Research 
Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology 
Co-Director, Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Training Program
Michigan State University 
400 Monroe Avenue NW
GRRC, Room 3020
Grand Rapids, MI 49503Phone: 616-234-0981
Fax: 616- 242-2733

Dr. Keith Latham
Professor, Department of Animal Science
Co-Director, Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Training Program
Michigan State University
474 S. Shaw Lane, room 1230B
East Lansing, MI  48824
lathamk1@msu.edu

Contact Information

Laurie Felton
Administrative Assistant
Reproductive and Developmental Science/NIH T32 Training Program
1261 Anthony Hall
474 S. Shaw Lane
ljfelton@msu.edu