Research concentration students will perform mentored thesis research in a state-of-the-art lab in the Center for Reproductive Health Sciences or an affiliated lab at Washington University. Broad research topics include fertility, contraception, embryology and development, pregnancy, labor, and gynecologic cancers. Research labs take a variety of approaches to these topics, including cellular and molecular biology, immunology, genetics, physiology and biophysics, and biomedical engineering. Additionally, our core and concentration-specific courses are taught by program-dedicated instructors and faculty expert guest lecturers providing the most up-to-date information.
The research concentration takes place over the following timeline: fall and spring semesters in the 1st year, the intervening summer between 1st and 2nd year, and fall and spring semesters in the 2nd year.
The program aims to provide students with the research and communication skills needed to confidently perform in a research or consulting environment after completing the program.
Reproductive Sciences Research (21-month program, beginning Fall 2025)
- Acquire advanced research skills.
- Forge connections with the scientific community at WashU.
- Make a scientific contribution to the reproductive biology knowledge base.
- Develop transferrable communication and professional skills.
- Complete a thesis project that demonstrates your academic capabilities and professional readiness.
- Take coursework focused on human reproductive physiology, pathology, and research methodology.
Applications open September 1.
Required Coursework – Research Concentration
| Course | Credit Hours | Term |
|---|---|---|
| Human Reproductive Physiology | 3 | Fall – 1st year |
| Current Tools in Reproductive Sciences I | 3 | Fall – 1st year |
| Reproductive Sciences Research I | 2 | Fall – 1st year |
| Repro Sci Communications I | 1 | Spring – 1st year |
| Advanced Topics in Reproductive Sciences | 3 | Spring – 1st year |
| Current Tools in Reproductive Sciences II | 3 | Spring – 1st year |
| Reproductive Sciences Research II | 2 | Spring – 1st year |
| Repro Sci Communications II | 1 | Summer – 1st year |
| Reproductive Sciences Research III | 3 | Summer – 1st year |
| Journal Club | 1 | Summer – 1st year |
| Reproductive Sciences Research IV | 3 | Fall – 2nd year |
| Introduction to Statistics for Clinical Research (CLNV 522) | 3 | Fall – 2nd year |
| Reproductive Sciences Research Thesis | 5 | Spring – 2nd year |
| Elective(s) | 3-4 | Optional timing |
Additional Required Activities
| Course | Credit Hours | Term |
|---|---|---|
| CRepHS Seminar Series | – | Fall & Spring |