CREST Program Overview

The ASRM/NICHD/DUKE Clinical Research/ Reproductive Scientist Training (CREST) Scholars training program is offered by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), the Clinical Research Training Program (CRTP) at Duke University, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), and the University of Colorado School of Medicine. CREST meets an existing need for formalized academic training in the quantitative and methodological principles of clinical research in reproductive medicine. Designed specifically for physicians in private or academic clinical practice in reproductive medicine, this innovative 2-year program engages the practicing physician in clinical research while allowing the individual to maintain an active role in clinical practice.

During the first year, participants in the program, CREST Scholars, receive didactic on-line training from the CRTP, attend CREST seminars at the annual meeting of ASRM, and attend an in-person investigator meeting of NIH funded PIs conducting clinical trials in reproductive medicine. Scholars who successfully complete the didactic component of the program receive a certificate from the CRTP at Duke University. In the second year, Scholars are provided with access to research mentorship, biostatistical support, and opportunities to engage in team science. All are expected to conduct, present, and publish secondary analyses of existing clinical trial databases that are relevant to the Scholar’s own interest and that will continue beyond the CREST program. Such opportunities include: 1) participating in secondary analysis of data relating to the Reproductive Medicine Network, the newly formed CONFIRM consortia, or other selected studies; 2) developing and completing a clinical research project in their own practice; 3) participating in other NIH or ASRM activities that pertain to research and/or assessment of the literature (e.g., an ASRM guidelines task force).

Eligibility Requirements:

Any M.D. engaged in the practice of reproductive medicine – regardless of specialty – and who has completed training is eligible to apply. Providers must be US citizens or permanent residents. Applications from obstetrician-gynecologists, urologists, internists, and family planning practitioners (among others) are welcome. Individuals who are underrepresented in medicine and females are encouraged to apply.