John-Paul Vermitsky, PhD

My research interest is understanding the mechanisms of antifungal resistance in pathogenic fungi.  Specifically, understanding the transcriptional regulation of drug transporter genes in C. glabrata.  In my research we explored the role of PDR1 as the transcription factor regulating CDR1 and PDH1 transporter genes and the role of gain-of-function mutations in both laboratory and clinical isolates. 

I received my education from Drexel University (B.S.) and Drexel University College of Medicine (Ph.D.) in 2001 and 2006 respectively.  My doctoral work is focused on molecular biology and genetics, specifically in relationship to the field of microbiology.  Since completing graduate school, I have spent most of my career in undergraduate education, starting my career at Camden County College as an adjunct in 2003.  However, I did spend 5 years doing basic science research at Medical Diagnostic Laboratories in Hamilton, New Jersey.  In 2010, I was hired at Community College of Philadelphia for a tenure-track position in the Department of Biology where I remain as an Associate Professor.  In 2015, I started teaching at Thomas Jefferson University as an adjunct in the College of Life Sciences for the P4 program and then in 2017 in the College of Health Professions for the Institute for Emerging Health Professions (formally School of Continuing and Professional Studies).  The courses that I teach include General Biology, Anatomy & Physiology I, Anatomy & Physiology II, and Principles of Microbiology.