A novel renal precursor cell is identified from kidney tissue. The cell is multipotent capable of forming renal epithelial and endothelial tissues. The cell can be amplified in culture and maintains stemness over multiple passages. This cell fulfills a major unmet need as a cell-based source for kidney regeneration or repair. Treatment of kidney diseases and disorders (e.g., glomerularpathies and acute tubular necrosis) may be improved thereby.