American Society for Reproductive Medicine Member Dr. Teresa Woodruff Awarded National Medal of Science
January 6, 2025
For immediate release
Dr. Woodruff is an expert in the fields of ovarian biology and reproductive science and holds a Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular biology, and cell biology from Northwestern University. She works as a Research Foundation Professor in MSU’s Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology and the Department of Biomedical Engineering. She served as Provost of the university from 2020 through 2022 and Interim President from 2022 to 2024. Previously, she served as Dean and Associate Provost for Graduate Education at Northwestern University.
A lifelong advocate for women in science, Dr. Woodruff spearheaded efforts to pass a federal mandate requiring sex equity in the NIH’s biomedical research. In 2006, she coined the term “oncofertility” to describe the merging of oncology and fertility, now a globally recognized medical discipline.
“Dr. Woodruff’s work in oncofertility has made a tangible difference in the lives of patients,” said ASRM President Dr. Elizabeth Ginsburg. “ASRM is thrilled that her contributions to the field are being recognized at the national level and beyond.”
The National Medal of Science is awarded annually to leaders in physical, biological, mathematical, engineering, or social and behavioral sciences. It is Congress's highest recognition of scientists and engineers and honors outstanding contributions to knowledge and research in service to the nation. Dr. Woodruff’s reception of this prestigious award is a recognition of the vital role that reproductive biology plays in health care.
In 2011, former President Barack Obama awarded Dr. Woodruff the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring for her dedication to teaching.
For almost a century, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) has been the global leader in multidisciplinary reproductive medicine research, ethical practice, and education. ASRM impacts reproductive care and science worldwide by creating funding opportunities for advancing reproduction research and discovery, by providing evidence-based education and public health information, and by advocating for reproductive health care professionals and the patients they serve. With members in more than 100 countries, the Society is headquartered in Washington, DC, with additional operations in Birmingham, AL. www.asrm.org
For media inquiries regarding this press release contact:
Sean Tipton
ASRM Chief Advocacy and Policy Officer
E: stipton@asrm.org
Anna Hovey
Advocacy Engagement Specialist
E: ahovey@asrm.org
J. Benjamin Younger Office of Public Affairs
726 7th St. SE
Washington, DC 20003
Tel: (202) 863-2494
Fertility in the News
ASRM Center for Policy & Leadership Releases White Paper Detailing Oversight of IVF in the U.S. and Abroad
ASRM's Center for Policy & Leadership releases a white paper on IVF and ART oversight, detailing U.S. and global regulations and their impact on reproductive care.
ASRM Releases Statement on IVF Policy Priorities
ASRM advocates for expanded IVF access, urging policy solutions that prioritize patient care, inclusivity, and medical decision-making free from political interference.
Resources For You
Advocacy Resources
ASRM has prepared resources to help you explain and advocate for reproductive rights and the continuation of in vitro fertilization and other fertility treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
ASRM's Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) provides answers to common questions about reproductive health.
Patient Journeys
ASRM has resources and publications to help you through each stage of your journey.
State and Territory Infertility Insurance Laws
One way that ASRM works to improve access to fertility care is by advocating for insurance coverage for reproductive medicine care. All patients should have access to the care they need.
Fact Sheets and Infographics
ASRM produces a series of fact sheets and booklets on various topics related to infertility, reproductive health, and family planning. The fact sheets and booklets are available in English, Spanish, and Chinese.
Reproductive Rights and You
The Dobbs decision has sparked a litany of changes in state laws across the nation, and more are expected. We need your help!
Reproductive Topics
Find all the resources on a specific topic compiled onto a single page.
SART Fertility Experts Podcast
An educational project of ASRM's affiliated society, the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART), this series is designed to provide up to date information about a variety of topics related to fertility testing and treatment such as IVF.
Patient Education Videos
ASRM and its affiliated society SART have made several videos to explain the sometimes difficult topics related to reproductive medicine.
Terms and Definitions
Find explanations for the meaning behind the doctor-speak you hear when trying to research reproductive medicine topics. ASRM has defined the most popular terms in easy to understand language.
Patient Stories
Read real-life stories from patients who have faced reproductive medicine challenges and come out stronger on the other side.
Fertility in the News
ASRM Press Releases and Bulletins are published by ASRM's Office of Public Affairs to inform the world about important happenings in reproductive medicine and at ASRM.
Find a Health Professional
