Thomas Shenk

Thomas Shenk is an American virologist known for his significant contributions to the field of virology. He is the James A. Elkins Professor of Life Sciences in the Department of Molecular Biology at Princeton University.

Early Life and Education

Shenk was born and raised in the United States. He pursued his undergraduate studies in biology at the University of Kansas, where he developed an interest in microbiology and genetics. He then went on to earn his Ph.D. in biochemistry from the University of Washington.

Career

After completing his Ph.D., Shenk moved to Princeton University where he began his research on viruses. His work primarily focuses on the study of adenoviruses, a group of common viruses that can cause a range of illnesses. Shenk's research has been instrumental in understanding the life cycle of these viruses and how they interact with their host cells.

Shenk has also made significant contributions to the study of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a virus that can cause serious disease in individuals with weakened immune systems. His research has led to the development of new strategies for the treatment and prevention of HCMV infections.

In addition to his research, Shenk has also been a dedicated educator. He has mentored numerous students and postdoctoral fellows, many of whom have gone on to have successful careers in academia and industry.

Awards and Honors

Shenk has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to virology. He is a member of the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. He has also received the Lasker Award, one of the most prestigious awards in the field of medicine.

See Also

• Virology
• Adenoviruses
• Human cytomegalovirus