Christopher B. Whitehurst

Christopher B. Whitehurst, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor at New York Medical College (NYMC) in the School of Medicine and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences since 2021. His research focuses on Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), a human herpesvirus linked to cancers like Hodgkin’s lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, as well as immune disorders. He investigates EBV’s late lytic gene BPLF1, a deubiquitinating enzyme critical for viral infectivity, DNA replication, and DNA repair.

• Education: Ph.D. in Biochemistry (North Carolina State University), M.S. in Chemistry (University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee), B.S. in Biochemistry (Clemson University).

Dr. Whitehurst’s work spans virology and ubiquitin systems, particularly EBV’s interaction with cellular processes. His studies demonstrate that BPLF1 knockout delays B-cell immortalization and lymphoma formation in humanized mice, highlighting its role in therapy development. Recent research plans include examining BPLF1’s impact on DNA repair, global effects in humanized models, and screening inhibitors. He is affiliated with the American Society for Virology and American Society for Microbiology, teaching Medical Microbiology and Biochemistry.

• Scientific Awards: Not listed in provided texts.