What is reproductive science?
In this new podcast episode, Stephanie sits down with Dr. Amander Clark, award-winning scientist as well as the Founder and Inaugural Director of UCLA’s Center for Reproductive Science, Health and Education (CRSHE). They explore Dr. Clark’s journey in reproductive science, the launch of CRSHE, and how collaboration across disciplines is shaping the future for reproductive technologies.
From innovative courses students can’t wait to enroll in, to research and resources designed to serve the broader community, this conversation looks at how science, education, and impact come together.
Join us for a forward-looking conversation about leadership, discovery, and the future of reproductive science.
Curious about a specific topic? Here’s what we cover:
1:18 – Introduction to Dr. Clark’s Research
2:49 – What Inspired Dr. Clark to Pursue Reproductive Science
4:12 – Defining Reproductive Science Research
6:00 – Establishing a Reproductive Science Center at UCLA
8:30 – Fostering Collaborations on Campus
12:12 – Redefining Curriculums to Include Reproductive Science
20:59 – Advancements in Reproductive Technology
24:16 – Inspiration for the Next Generation
Resource
UCLA Center for Reproductive Science, Health and Education (https://reprohealth.ucla.edu/)
Dr. Yalda Afshar
The Clark Lab (https://clark.mcdb.ucla.edu/)
Biography
Amander Clark PhD is Professor and former Department Chair of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology at UCLA and Founding Director of the UCLA Center for Reproductive Science, Health and Education. Professor Clark is an award-winning scientist and internationally recognized expert on topics in stem cell biology, developmental biology and reproductive science. Her current interests are in ovarian health, formation of the ovarian reserve, and the creation of next generation tools and technologies using stem cells aimed at improving health and health-span. Professor Clark has authored more than 100 scientific articles with over 20,000 citations of her published work. She has been recognized with awards from the International Society for Stem Cell Research, the Society for the Study of Reproduction, the Founders Medal from the Australian Society for Reproductive Biology, the Concern Foundation, JM Foundation and the Lance Armstrong Foundation. She is regularly invited to appear as a subject matter expert for the New York Times, the Economist, the New Yorker and Public Radio. From 2023-2024 Professor Clark served as President of the International Society for Stem Cell Research, a global non-profit that promotes excellence in stem cell science and applications to human health. In addition to her research and teaching, Professor Clark serves on numerous Boards and in Executive Committee appointments including from 2023-2025 where she served on the National Academy of Science Engineering and Medicine Health Science Policy Board and is currently serving on the executive committee for the Center for the Study of Women/Barbra Streisand Center at UCLA. Through her research, service and teaching, Professor Clark is committed to scientific practices that are informed by multidisciplinary research and engagement with the public.