Training Program in Reproductive, Perinatal and Pediatric Epidemiology

ABSTRACT The pathway from conception to adulthood is influenced by many factors including genetics, social factors, nutrition, infection and inflammation and the environment. The impact of these factors depends on the type and timing of exposures, relative to critical windows of vulnerability. Experimental science focused on understanding, measuring, and intervening on factors that influence reproductive and pediatric health is especially challenging due to the innate vulnerability of these populations. Epidemiology provides a rigorous methodological framework to interrogate important questions about reproductive, perinatal, and pediatric health and disease. Epidemiologists are trained to estimate the prevalence of reproductive and pediatric conditions, causal relationships between a range of exposures and outcomes, and the role social determinants play in creating health disparities. Epidemiologic methods are also valuable for evaluating the implementation of interventions to improve reproductive and pediatric health outcomes. Rigorous methods tailor study design to maximize data quality and carefully construct analyses to minimize bias and emphasize interpretation. Our Reproductive, Perinatal, and Pediatric Epidemiology Predoctoral Training Program prepares the next generation of epidemiologists to investigate the real world contextual and interacting influences of genetics, physical environment, and social environment that impact reproductive, perinatal, and pediatric health. Training comprises didactic training and mentored research, complemented with professional development and enrichment opportunities. Primary and Affiliate Preceptors have extensive research portfolios and a range of expertise to offer. Trainees gain appreciation for the biological underpinnings of reproductive and pediatric health. They learn to identify longstanding and emerging problems and apply rigorous research methods in complex, real-world settings to study them. Trainees complete our program with a sophisticated methodological toolbox, experience integrating methods with substantive area knowledge, and requisite professional skills to engage in collaborative science that advances the field and tackles important research questions that impact reproductive and child health.