Christopher Williams

Dr. Christopher Williams is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Division of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences at Xavier University of Louisiana's College of Pharmacy. He holds a PhD in Pharmacology from Tulane University and completed postdoctoral training at the Tulane Cancer Center, specializing in endocrine-related cancer signaling. His research focuses on developing novel therapeutic approaches for breast cancer, particularly targeting kinase/nuclear receptor crosstalk and tumor microenvironment signaling.

Research Interests: Dr. Williams investigates three primary areas: 1) Protein Kinase CK2 inhibition as alternative endocrine therapy, 2) The orphan nuclear receptor NR4A2/NURR1 in cancer prognosis/prevention, and 3) Anti-neoplastic mechanisms of antidiabetic biguanides (metformin/phenformin) in disrupting inflammatory signaling within breast cancer microenvironments. His lab employs molecular pharmacology and cancer biology approaches to address therapeutic resistance mechanisms.

Mentoring & Funding: Dr. Williams actively mentors underrepresented minority scientists through programs including RISE, MARC, UNCF STEM Scholars, McNair Scholars, and LS-LAMP. His research has been supported by NIH, Office of Naval Research, LCRC, and RCMI grants. He has guided students toward careers in academia, pharmacy, and clinical research.

Research Publications Focus: Analysis of Dr. Williams' recent publications reveals consistent themes in breast cancer signaling, nuclear receptor biology, drug resistance mechanisms, and tumor microenvironment modulation. His work increasingly incorporates advanced models including microphysiological systems (organ-on-chip) and 3D tissue constructs.