Lili Liu, PhD

Dr. Liu’s research focuses on dissecting the genetic and molecular architecture of complex kidney diseases, with a specialized interest in glomerular disorders. Her work leverages an integrative, multi-disciplinary approach that combines genomic and multi-omics data with advanced imaging and detailed clinical phenotyping to investigate how genetic and molecular variation influence kidney structure, function, and disease progression.

Motivated by the promise of precision medicine, Dr. Liu aims to move beyond identifying disease-associated risk factors to uncovering causal biological pathways that may inform the development of targeted, personalized therapies. Her research sits at the intersection of data science, molecular biology, and clinical pathology, with a strong emphasis on translational impact. Through this integrative framework, Dr. Liu seeks to identify actionable biomarkers and therapeutic targets to ultimately improve the clinical management and outcomes of patients with kidney disease.

Defining genetic basis of glomerular disease and related traits for the development of targeted therapies and improved disease management.

Joint analysis of biopsy images and multi-omics data to uncover genetic and molecular basis of kidney structure and function.

Identification of non-invasive biomarkers of renal disease through systems genetics.