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 2022 | 19 Nobel Laureates |
Latest News
Dr. Yang Eric Li awarded St. Baldrick’s Foundation research grants to study pediatric cancers (Links to an external site)
Li was awarded the St. Baldrick’s Foundation Scholar Grant, which provides $234,000 for his project to study disruptions in gene activity that may underlie diffuse midline glioma.
2023-2024 Department of Genetics Seminar Series Concluded with Notable Increase in Attendance
The Genetics Department Seminar Series co-directed by Dr. Tychele Turner and Dr. Tristan Li, saw another year of successful presentations and attendance. The 2023-2024 academic year seminar series had 30 presenters from various academic and research institutions. The seminar poster and signage were placed on the Danforth and Medical School campuses with over 35 locations […]
An inducible genetic tool developed by the Li lab to study microglial states
A recent study published in Immunity by the Li lab opens a new chapter for the study of microglial function in development and neurodegeneration with remarkable precision.