History

A first consolidation of research interest in reproductive biology at Laval University was born from collaboration between the Department of Animal Science and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in the early 90’s. The first group was created in 1992 and was composed of about ten members. It was named Groupe de recherche en biologie de la reproduction (Research Group in Reproductive Biology - GRBR). This group received official recognition by Laval University in 1995 with the creation of the Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction (Research Centre in Reproductive Biology - CRBR). CRBR was a two Faculties centre and was mainly composed of researchers og the Faculty of medicine and the Faculty of agricultural and food science. During the next 20 years, CRBR has gradually increased its rank, its resources (financial and material) and its scientific productivity to become one of the most important research centre in the field of reproduction in Canada. Since its creation, CRBR has mainly focused on the fundamental mechanisms involved in reproductive biology, covering in large part the reproductive cycle of human and many other animal species. The operating model of CRBR mainly revolved around the important reproductive systems (ovarian functions, testis functions, uterine functions). The work of CRBR members has contributed to an important broadening of knowledge in these fields.

During the winter and spring of 2015, the executive committee of CRBR has undertaken a major reflection on its operating structure and its scientific program. Discussions have led to the creation of a new governing plan and a new director for the centre. They also led to a modification of the centre’s name, which will from now on be known as Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle (Research Centre in reproduction, development and intergenerational health - CRDSI). The changes were made in order to : 1) update the themes covered and integrate new emerging sectors in reproductive biology; 2) add new expertise to the centre and 3) adapt the centre’s themes with the new research priorities in this sectors as identified by the University, its Faculties and by the major granting agencies of Quebec and Canada.  CRDSI builds on its existing foundations and strengths in the development of knowledge on reproductive biology but increases its efforts toward the mobilization of this knowledge, including technological transfer, in order to improve the health and wellbeing of our society as well as the efficiency and sustainability of animal productions.