Tom Oomens

Tom Oomens is an Associate Professor in the Department of Veterinary Pathobiology at Oklahoma State University's College of Veterinary Medicine. His research focuses on virology, particularly Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and vaccine development.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Molecular Virology from Wageningen University, The Netherlands (1994-1999)
• M.Sc. in Virology/Immunology from Wageningen University, The Netherlands (1991-1993)

Dr. Oomens' research primarily centers on negative-strand RNA viruses with a specific focus on Respiratory Syncytial Virus. His work spans medical virology, vaccine development, and viral pathogenesis. He has made significant contributions to understanding RSV structure, viral entry mechanisms (particularly the CX3CR1 receptor interaction), and the development of novel vaccine platforms including single-cycle vaccines, virus-like particles, and M protein-deficient vaccines. His research has important implications for both human and veterinary medicine, particularly in developing safer and more effective RSV vaccines.

Analysis of Dr. Oomens' recent publications reveals a consistent focus on RSV vaccine development with particular emphasis on single-cycle replication strategies, prefusion F protein stabilization, and modifications to viral proteins to enhance vaccine safety and efficacy. His work bridges basic virology with translational vaccine research, utilizing multiple model systems including mice, cotton rats, and non-human primates.

Scientific Awards:

• Best poster award at the 11th International RSV Symposium 2018 (Asheville, NC)

Dr. Oomens has served as a mentor to graduate students through PhD dissertation research and has been actively involved in securing research funding. His grant portfolio includes multiple NIH-funded projects, USDA grants, and collaborations with organizations like Heartland Vaccines LLC. He has contributed extensively to the scientific community through peer review activities for major journals and funding agencies including the Medical Research Council (UK) and NSERC (Canada).

Dr. Oomens is actively involved in multiple research teams focused on respiratory virus pathogenesis and vaccine development. His laboratory work integrates molecular virology, immunology, and animal model studies to advance understanding of RSV and develop novel vaccine strategies.