The Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology has a vibrant research program that continues to grow in stature. Faculty are actively involved in basic research with an overall emphasis in translational research focused on benign and malignant gynepathologies, as well as social and community based research.
In the basic sciences the emphasis is on understanding maternal-fetal interactions as it relates to blastocyst implantation together with using model systems to understand the pathophysiology of endometriosis and its impact on infertility. In addition the strong emphasis on gynecological oncology seeks to identify genes that are dysregulated in endometrial and ovarian cancers. The overall focus of these studies are to analyze molecular pathways that could predict therapeutic strategies for patients using a personalized medicine approach.
Another area of research utilizes engaged scholarship with communities, women and their families, health systems, providers, programs and policymakers, to make data-driven decisions that reduce health disparities and improve maternal and infant health. The projects include leading the MIRACLE Center of Maternal Health Research Excellence, one of 12 NIH-funded nationwide and Michigan's only. The work focuses on the development, implementation, and testing of community-centered, scalable interventions including community-clinical linkages and community health worker interventions. The program of research targets the health and health care of Medicaid-insured pregnant and postpartum women, especially those with an increased health burden and social determinants of health risks.
Graduate training opportunities are routinely available in the laboratories of the faculty who are also affiliated with the Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program (RDSP) at MSU. To inquire about possible openings potential candidates are encouraged to contact the faculty directly, or through the interdisciplinary programs website at Michigan State University