For this Faculty Feature, we spoke with Lijuan Feng, PhD, Assistant Professor, Pathology & Immunology in Laboratory & Genomic Medicine.
Tell us about your background. Where did you grow up, and when did you first become interested in science and medicine?
I grew up in a small city in Shandong Province along China’s east coast, known as the birthplace of Confucius and one of China’s leading agricultural regions. Many of my fond childhood memories were spent on the farm, where I witnessed the ripening of apples, cotton, wheat, and soybeans, and listened to the sounds of frogs croaking and insects chirping.
Driven by a natural curiosity about how living organisms function in nature, I chose biology as my major at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC). My interest in science deepened there, as I gained knowledge in the classroom and began bench work in a research lab. The dynamic and highly esteemed scientific environment in my college inspired many students, including myself, to pursue STEM research.
What is your career path?
After completing my undergraduate studies, I moved to Baltimore to pursue a Ph.D. in Molecular and Developmental Biology at Johns Hopkins University. My thesis research in Dr. Xin Chen’s lab focused on investigating the roles of chromatin regulators in germline stem cell biology. Driven by a desire to further understand chromatin dysregulation in human diseases, I relocated to New York City for postdoctoral training in Dr. C. David Allis’s lab at The Rockefeller University, where I studied how histone mutations contribute to cancer and developmental disorders.
My training in genetics, chromatin biology, and developmental biology has prepared me well for a research career in exploring the molecular mechanisms of chromatin in health and disease. I was fortunate to secure a faculty position at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, where I officially established my lab in April 2025. My research team is dedicated to leveraging disease-associated histone mutations to advance our understanding of how histones and chromatin contribute to developmental disorders, brain inflammation, and cancer.
What are your favorite parts of your current role?
My favorite part of my current job is working together with scientists who share the same passion for scientific discovery. As I set up my lab, I enjoy chatting with the next generation of scientists, answering their questions such as: why do you study histone mutants? How can we generate models to replicate what occurs in patients? Is it possible to identify therapeutic targets? Additionally, I appreciate the opportunity to work alongside talented colleagues from diverse fields, which significantly enriches my research.
What is a memorable moment you’ve had while working in the department?
In the past six weeks of working in our department, I have already experienced several memorable moments. All reflect the supportive spirit of the WashU scientific community. These moments range from being invited to present at the Center for Genome Integrity (CGI) retreat and participate in epigenetic and chromatin seminars to receiving an invitation to teach a group of incoming Ph.D. students. Beyond these academic opportunities, I have also enjoyed several friendly coffee breaks and lunch meetings with colleagues. I was thrilled when I received an invitation to serve on a graduate student’ thesis committee during my second week at WashU. These experiences have not only reinforced my excitement about joining the WashU research community but have also helped me establish valuable connections with my colleagues and trainees.
What special skills or talents do you have that people may not know about?
I love playing with kids and have gained valuable “mentoring skills” at home, thanks to my 10-year-old son and 3-year-old daughter. They have taught me how to convince them to play well together when I need to cook. In addition, I learn how to negotiate with them and set clear expectations. Attending my children’s friends’ birthday parties has also become a great opportunity for socializing and even finding potential collaborators. After moving to St. Louis, I have become quite familiar with many local attractions, including the Magic House, Botanical Garden, the Zoo, and the Clark Family Branch of the St. Louis County Library.
What are some of your favorite hobbies or activities?
Outside of the lab, I enjoy spending time with my husband and kids. We go to my son’s soccer tournaments and piano recitals. We love exploring local restaurants, parks, zoo and playgrounds. On some weekends, I love having brunch or dinner with close friends while my husband takes care of kids at home. In my downtime, I enjoy reading novels and watching movies or popular dramas.
What is your advice to aspiring people in your field?
My advice to aspiring scientists is to never hesitate to reach out for help. Both a scientific career and personal life are filled with obstacles and uncertainties. It is perfectly normal to feel upset and take time to process during difficult moments. But you are not alone. Many others have faced similar challenges and made it through. Seek out mentors and friends you trust and those who genuinely support your growth, prioritize your well-being, and offer honest, constructive feedback.
