John Mattick

Professor John Mattick AO FAA

John Stanley Mattick (born 1950) is an Australian molecular biologist renowned for his research in the field of genomics and non-coding RNA. He has significantly contributed to the understanding of the role of non-coding RNA in the regulation of gene expression and the complexity of the human genome.

Early Life and Education

John Mattick was born in 1950 in Sydney, Australia. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Sydney, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He then pursued a PhD in biochemistry at Monash University in Melbourne, focusing on the molecular biology of bacteriophages.

Career

After completing his PhD, Mattick undertook postdoctoral research at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, where he worked on the molecular genetics of bacterial pathogenesis. Upon returning to Australia, he joined the University of Queensland and later became the Director of the Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB).

Research Contributions

John Mattick is best known for his pioneering work on non-coding RNAs. His research has challenged the traditional view that the majority of the human genome is "junk DNA." Mattick's studies have shown that non-coding RNAs play crucial roles in the regulation of gene expression, epigenetics, and the development of complex organisms.

His work has led to a deeper understanding of the human genome and has implications for the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.

Awards and Honors

John Mattick has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to molecular biology and genomics, including:

• The Order of Australia (AO) for his service to scientific research.
• The Australian Academy of Science's Macfarlane Burnet Medal.
• Election as a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS).

Personal Life

John Mattick is married and has children. He continues to be active in the scientific community, contributing to various research projects and mentoring young scientists.

See Also

• Genomics
• Non-coding RNA
• Human genome
• Epigenetics
• Cancer research