From deciphering underlying genetic factors of diseases to developing cutting-edge genome technology, our scientists are making impactful discoveries everyday.

Strength in Genetics and Genomics Research

The Department of Genetics has traditional strengths in computational biology and genome science, as well as model organism, evolutionary and human genetics. Recent specialties include neurological disorders, cellular bioenergetics, epigenomics, personalized medicine and genome technology development.

We have established leadership in the following flagship NIH genomic medicine themed projects:

  • The Human Pangenome Project (NHGRI)
  • The Impact of Genetic Variation on Function (NHGRI)
  • The Long Life Family Study (NIA)
  • Somatic Mosaicism across Human Tissues (NIH Common Fund)
  • Multi-Omics for Health and Disease (NHGRI, NCI, NIEHS)
  • The BRAIN (The Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies) Initiative Cell Atlas Network (NIMH)

Within the close-knit research community of Washington University School of Medicine, our scientists are supported by a strong foundation. School of Medicine Facts & Figures

#2 NIH Funding (2023)$838.3 Million Research Funding 202219 Nobel Laureates 

Latest News

Phillips-Cremins named BJC investigator (Links to an external site)

Phillips-Cremins named BJC investigator
Jennifer E. Phillips-Cremins, PhD, an international leader in understanding 3D genome structure and how it affects brain development and neurological diseases, has been named a BJC Investigator at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. Phillips-Cremins will join the Department of Genetics as the James McDonnell Professor and have a dual appointment in the Department of Neuroscience.

Dr. Susan Dutcher elected to National Academy of Sciences (Links to an external site)

Dr. Susan Dutcher elected to National Academy of Sciences
Dr. Susan Dutcher, professor of genetics and of cell biology and physiology is one of 120 members and 30 international members recently newly elected to the National Academy of Sciences in recognition of her distinguished and continuing achievements in original research. Election to the academy is considered one of the highest honors accorded a U.S. scientist or engineer.

Our Research Areas