Reproduction and Endocrinology Scientific Advisory Group
The mission of the Reproduction and Endocrinology Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) is to develop cooperative relationships between AZA, its Animal Programs, its accredited institutions, and the scientific community of reproduction and endocrine specialists and provide technical advice to enhance reproduction services for AZA Animal Programs.
The Reproduction and Endocrinology SAG advises the AZA Animal Population Management (APM) Committee, Conservation & Science Department, and Animal Program Leaders on issues related to reproductive biology. It is overseen by the Research and Technology Committee (RTC).
Functions
The Reproduction and Endocrinology SAG is administered by a Steering Committee composed of three Officers (Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary) all of whom are elected from the Reproduction and Endocrinology SAG membership. The primary functions of the Reproduction and Endocrinology SAG are to:
- Determine the reproductive status of individuals.
- Assess reproductive needs for different species.
- Identify and prioritize specific reproductive research topics.
- Recommend appropriate technology, resources and personnel who might be interested in assisting with the topics identified.
- Advise AZA Animal Programs on methods for enhancing reproductive performance.
- Provide the latest scientific information to advance reproductive technologies for rare or endangered species.
- Provide endocrine advice to AZA-accredited institutions to ensure superior animal health, reproductive management, and welfare.
- Provide a forum for information exchange and collaboration between wildlife endocrinology laboratories.
- Provide advice to zoos and aquariums planning to establish new endocrine laboratories as requested.
- Assist in assessing reproductive status, diagnosing and monitoring pregnancy, treating infertility, supporting development of assisted reproductive technologies, and monitoring adrenal or other potential endocrine functions.
- Participate in or provide advice on endocrinology related research projects/proposals.
Repro-Endo SAG Officers and Steering Committee Members
Kari Morfeld - Chair
Copper Aitken-Palmer - Vice Chair
Grace Fuller - Secretary
Cheryl Asa - Steering Committee
Jason Herrick - Steering Committee
Linda Penfold - Steering Committee
Budhan Pukazhenthi - Steering Committee
Catharine Wheaton - Steering Committee
Ruth Marcec-Greaves - Steering Committee
Rachel Santymire - Steering Committee
Resources
Reproductive Health Surveillance Program
AZA Reproductive Management Center
Have a question for the Repro-Endo SAG? Contact ReproEndoSAG@gmail.com.
We also encourage you to share our flyer with others who may be interested in learning more!
Interested in Becoming an Repro-Endo SAG Member?
If you are interested in becoming involved with or obtaining more information, please contact Kari Morfeld, Repro-Endo SAG Chair.