Adam R. Hersperger

Adam R. Hersperger is an Associate Professor of Biology at Albright College, where he teaches courses in virology, microbiology, and molecular genetics. His research focuses on poxvirus-host interactions, particularly the Ectromelia virus (mousepox) and its mechanisms of immune evasion.

• Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Pennsylvania
• B.S. in Cell Biology and Biochemistry from Bucknell University

Dr. Hersperger's research explores:

• Molecular characterization of viral proteins like EGF orthologs and their role in cell signaling
• Immunomodulatory strategies of poxviruses, including inhibition of CD4+ T cell antigen presentation
• Comparative virology of ectromelia and vaccinia viruses in RNA metabolism and replication
• Development of protective immunity through epithelial immunization

His peer-reviewed publications span high-impact journals like Journals of Virology and PLOS Pathogens, with a focus on viral protein functions and cross-species immune responses. He has received multiple travel awards for mentoring undergraduate research at the American Society for Virology annual meetings.

Dr. Hersperger has secured a NIAID R01 grant (AI110542-01A1) as co-PI for studies on MHCII cross-presentation in poxvirus immunology. His Hersperger Lab actively involves undergraduate researchers in projects related to viral pathogenesis and immunology.