Research

From the origins of diseases to their impact on public health, our scientists are making discoveries that move medicine forward.

WashU Medicine has an outstanding history of biomedical research in an environment designed to bring together the brightest minds seeking out the most difficult questions to answer, driven by the need to change medicine – and the world – for good.

“The real power is having people with different perspectives and expertise working side by side. You can’t help but generate new ideas and new approaches to solving problems. That is where you get real scientific power.”

— Linda J. Richards, PhD
Edison Professor of Neurobiology
Chair, Department of Neuroscience

Global force in research

As #2 in NIH funding for research and training, WashU Medicine is among the nation’s most dynamic and robust research enterprises. More than $824.6 million in grants and contracts supported faculty research in the 2023 fiscal year.

The result is continual advances in the way we care for patients – and a reshaping of what we know is possible. Our scientists have pushed their fields to new discoveries, including developments in genomics and genetic testing, personalized medicine, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, heart disease, imaging, brain mapping, organ transplants and more.

• Explore faculty profiles to discover research, browse publications, and find collaborators or mentors.
• Meet the BJC Investigators whose discoveries are changing scientific thinking.
• Read about the 19 Nobel Laureates associated with WashU Medicine.

Student and training opportunities

WashU Medicine is regarded as one of the top medical schools in the nation for research. Our medical students have the opportunity to work with world-renowned faculty, who mentor students during summer and year-long research projects. Though research is not required, 95% of our medical students – most of whom are preparing for specialties in clinical practice – complete a research project while working on their MD.

In addition to research opportunities for medical students, many students choose WashU for the Medical Scientist Training Program (MD/PhD) or one of twelve PhD programs in biology and biomedical sciences.

See research training programs »

Life-saving discoveries

We are committed to investing in basic science research, the driving force for most medical breakthroughs. Our physicians and scientists collaborate to quickly and effectively translate new research discoveries into tools, methods and treatments that will benefit patients.

The Division of Physician-Scientists further nurtures the career development of physicians who treat patients and also want to conduct scientific research, addressing a nationwide shortage of physician-scientists. The division is committed to being broadly inclusive and to endeavor to enhance recruitment, training and retention of people who are underrepresented in the physician-scientist pool, including women and people of color.

At this a critical moment in science and medicine, you can make a difference. WashU Medicine seeks diverse students, scientists and practitioners who will join us in seizing opportunities and overcoming challenges to improve the health and lives of people around the world.

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