Welcome to the Department of Genetics!
26 Labs
150 Students, trainees, & postdocs
55 Faculty
Our mission is to create an exciting and collegial environment where world-class research in Genetics and Genomics is translated into improvements in human health through better understanding of the molecular underpinnings of disease.
We are hiring!
Latest News
“Tristan” Qingyun Li, PhD receives $3 million R01 to investigate how microglia change during Alzheimer’s disease
The 3rd Gary D. Stormo Computational & Systems Biology Lecture and 2026 Stormo Fellow
Gabor Egervari, MD, PhD receives first R01 to investigate how alcohol metabolites affect the brain
Our Research Areas
Recent Publications
Our Campus
Couch Biomedical Research Building
In 2015 the new state-of-the-art research building opened on McKinley Avenue featuring highly flexible open laboratories to facilitate collaboration and accommodate new research teams.
State-of-the-art Research Space
With six stories and 138,000 square feet of lab space, it houses researchers involved in genetics, genomics and regenerative biology, and consolidates most Department of Genetics faculty into a single location closer to important collaborators from other departments.
Research in Comfort
Each floor has a large relaxation area where you can access microwaves, fridges and coffee machines. Dedicated food truck parking and outdoor seating have made the lawn a popular place for people across the campus to gather.
Postdoc Profile: Holly Godin, PhD
Holly Godin studies the binding logic of pioneer transcription factors to uncover the mechanisms of pioneer factor–nucleosome interactions and provide insights that could ultimately inform new cancer therapies in the Meers lab. Below we are going to delve into Holly’s background, hobbies and research aspirations.
Upcoming Events
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Lab Spotlight
Arnold Lab
The Arnold lab studies molecular mechanisms of ALS, FTD, and other TDP-43–related neurodegenerative diseases to identify new therapeutic targets.
Our History
The Forefront of Genetics Research
The Department of Genetics at Washington University is one of the oldest and highest ranked departments in the country, contributing to monumental projects such as the Human Genome Project.
Our Community
Department of Genetics Postdoc Welcome Event 8.27.2026 
2026 World Cup watch party 
Genetics Billiards Tournament 2026 
Genetics Billiards Tournament 2026 
Faculty Retreat Jan. 9 2026 
Celebration of Dr. Susan Dutcher’s election to the National Academy of Sciences 
Wang lab 2025 
2025 Dragon Boat Festival – Li lab 
Jin lab outing 2025 
Turner lab outing 2024 
Egervari lab outing 2024 
Li lab outing 
Dougherty lab 
2023 Retreat 
One year anniversary – Meers Lab 
Cohen lab outing 
Dr. Susan Dutcher with her student in the lab
The Department of Genetics at WashU fosters a collaborative atmosphere, promoting the sharing of innovative ideas and the collective learning from colleagues at all career stages. Our commitment to facilitating this exchange is evident through various initiatives, including regular gatherings like weekly seminars and annual scientific retreats.