Announcing Aleksandar Rajkovic, MD, PhD, as Director of the UCSF Center for Reproductive Sciences
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Aleksandar Rajkovic, MD, PhD, as Director of the UCSF Center for Reproductive Sciences (CRS), effective August 1, 2025.
We would like to thank the search committee, co-chaired by Synthia “Sindy” Mellon, PhD and Linda C. Giudice, MD, PhD, MSc, for their work in considering an exceptional pool of candidates for this position. We would also like to express our deepest gratitude to Sindy Mellon, who has served as Interim Director of the CRS for the past five years. Her steady, thoughtful leadership has been instrumental in guiding the Center through a time of transition, ensuring continuity of mentorship, scientific excellence, and community.
A renowned physician-scientist and visionary leader in genomic medicine, Dr. Rajkovic brings a wealth of experience that bridges fundamental research, clinical innovation, and mentorship. He currently serves as Chief Genomics Officer of UCSF Health, Stuart Lindsay Distinguished Professor in Experimental Pathology, and Professor in the Departments of Pathology and Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences.
His scientific contributions have transformed our understanding of reproductive tract development, gametogenesis, and the genetic basis of fertility and gynecologic disease. An elected member of the National Academy of Medicine, Dr. Rajkovic has authored more than 200 peer-reviewed publications and helped guide the integration of precision medicine across UCSF Health. Dr. Rajkovic will continue to serve as Chief Genomics Officer of UCSF Health.
In his new role, Dr. Rajkovic aims to strengthen the CRS as a global leader in reproductive sciences by expanding innovative research, enhancing clinical integration, and fostering mentorship opportunities. His immediate priorities include strategic faculty recruitment, building stronger interdisciplinary collaborations, and developing sustainable funding strategies to support the Center’s future.
Founded in 1977, the UCSF Center for Reproductive Sciences has long been a model of interdisciplinary excellence. Today, it includes 26 faculty from various departments (8) and Centers/Institutes (7) and over 100 trainees, including graduate students, basic science postdoctoral fellows, and clinical fellows. The Center’s research spans the full spectrum of reproductive biology – from gametogenesis and implantation to placentation and epigenetics – while training the next generation of leaders in reproductive science and medicine.
Dr. Rajkovic’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment in the Center’s history. As we look ahead, we see tremendous opportunity to build on a strong foundation and usher in a new era of bold science, expanded impact, and collaborative leadership.
Please join us in warmly welcoming Dr. Rajkovic to his new role. We are confident that under his leadership, the CRS will continue to thrive as a premier hub of scientific discovery, clinical innovation, and mentorship in reproductive health.