Will there be another generation of reproductive scientists?

This paper outlines concerns pertaining to the future of professionals in the discipline of reproductive science. This discourse is based on the experiences, opinions and due considerations of the author. The major objective of this paper is to stimulate thinking, discussion and debate, as well as action aimed at correcting problems that may threaten the next generation of reproductive scientists. The most important points are that mentoring has been replaced with counting, and that academic positions with combined research and teaching components are less and less attractive due to the protracted PhD plus postdoctoral training periods, the extremely low funding rates for extramural grant proposals, and being rewarded on the basis of quantity rather than quality.