The goals and objectives of the Research Division and Graduate Program in Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, based on the recommendations of the last Departmental Review, are as follows:

Long-germ Goal

To improve communications between basic scientists and clinicians, and between the Department Head and both clinical and basic scientists.

Immediate and Short-term Objectives

• A primary responsibility of the Research Division is to develop goals and initiatives in conjunction with other Division Heads for the benefit of the Department as a whole.
• Development of Rounds that include both clinical and basic scientists. These will be particularly functional at the subspecialty level – Perinatology, Oncology, and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility.
• A Departmental Research Day will involve both graduate students and residents; a social component to this will be added.
• Clinicians will be encouraged to develop clear clinically relevant questions for collaboration with basic scientists. Funding will be directed towards provision of basic technical support.
• Clinicians will be asked to participate in graduate student committees to increase awareness of the basic science activities.
• Basic scientists will be encouraged to participate in resident training program, particularly in research electives.
• External funding opportunities, such as CIHR Group grants, will facilitate clinical/basic science interaction in “growth and development” with the potential for such a centre at the BC Research Institute for Children’s and Women’s Health.