Research flourishes within the Department of Pediatrics as a hallmark of the collaborative culture that has long been at the roots of the WashU and the School of Medicine.
From basic research through to translational and clinical studies, the department seeks to steadily advance understanding and improve outcomes at the local and global scale. Leveraging the various research cores of the university, the department is able to strategically purpose funding, more than earning its reputation as a research powerhouse.
$65M
FY25 research funding
80+
Principal investigators
700+
2024 published articles
2026 Pediatric Research Retreat
More than 300 pediatric researchers and clinicians gathered on March 27 at the Eric P. Newman Education Center for the 2026 Pediatrics Research Retreat, a day dedicated to scientific discovery, collaboration and professional networking.
The event featured 14 presentations showcasing a wide range of pediatric research topics. Attendees also heard a keynote address from David Perlmutter, MD, Dean of the School of Medicine, who discussed efforts to develop drug candidates that restore critical proteostasis functions and potentially combat age-related degenerative diseases.
The retreat concluded with recognition of outstanding fellow-led research:
- Melissa An Song, MD received the award for Best Clinical Research Abstract.
- Jenny Patel, MD received the award for Best Basic Research Abstract.
The annual retreat highlighted the breadth of pediatric research innovation while fostering collaboration among clinicians, researchers and trainees.
Looking for a clinical research coordinator?
Our department offers clinical research coordinator effort to investigators throughout the School of Medicine at established fees. Learn more about our Pediatric Clinical Research Coordinator (PCRC) Pool.
Investigators
Find the principal investigators leading pediatric discovery across our department — from basic science to clinical trials. Browse profiles to see research focus areas, collaborations and opportunities to connect.
Labs
Step inside the labs where teams of scientists, clinicians and trainees pursue answers to today’s toughest child-health questions. Each lab page highlights current projects, methods and how the work moves from bench to bedside.
Publications
See what our investigators are publishing now. Recent papers and forthcoming work show the breadth of pediatric research here — and the partnerships that turn discoveries into better care for children.
Centers
Our research centers bring specialists together around shared missions — rare disease, cancer, immunology and more. Join collaborators who are building programs, therapies and networks that reshape pediatric care.
Resources
Need cores, funding guidance, training or shared tools? Start here for department and WashU Medicine resources that help investigators launch studies, grow collaborations and keep research moving.