Christopher J. Pappas

Christopher J. Pappas serves as Associate Professor and Director of Laboratory Safety in the Department of Biology within Manhattanville University's School of Arts and Sciences. His molecular microbiology expertise drives research and teaching across general biology, parasitology, genetics, and biochemistry disciplines.

His educational background includes a Ph.D. (2011) and M.S. (2006) in Microbiology & Immunology from New York Medical College, and a B.S. (2002) in Psychology, Biology and Neuroscience from Syracuse University.

Dr. Pappas focuses on vector-borne and zoonotic disease mechanisms, particularly Lyme disease pathogenesis in ticks and genetic survival strategies of saprophytic Leptospira. His work bridges environmental adaptation, bacterial gene regulation, and public health implications of emerging pathogens.

His publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to understanding spirochete biology, with recent work advancing genetic tools for Leptospira research and elucidating regulatory pathways critical for environmental persistence.

• Faculty Member of the Year Award (2013)
• Martha Lucas Pate, Ph.D. Memorial Award (2011)
• Multiple 1st/2nd Place awards at NY Medical College research forums (2008-2010)

As Director of Laboratory Safety, he founded Manhattanville's Laboratory Safety Committee and chairs the Faculty Budget Committee. His community engagement includes science fair judging and managing the university's Organic Community Garden. Professional affiliations span the American Society for Microbiology, New York Academy of Sciences, and Sigma Xi Scientific Research Society.