John Mattick

John Mattick is a renowned molecular biologist and Professor of RNA Biology at UNSW Sydney.13 He has made significant contributions to the field of genomics and RNA biology, particularly in understanding the role of non-coding RNA in complex organisms.4

Career Highlights

• Previously served as Chief Executive of Genomics England (2018-2019)23
• Former Executive Director of the Garvan Institute of Medical Research in Sydney (2012-2018)13
• Foundation Director of the Institute for Molecular Bioscience and the Australian Genome Research Facility at the University of Queensland3

Research Contributions

Professor Mattick has pioneered a new perspective on genetic programming in complex organisms, demonstrating that the majority of the genome, previously considered "junk," actually specifies a dynamic network of regulatory RNAs guiding differentiation and development.1 He has published nearly 300 research articles, with his work receiving coverage in prestigious scientific publications.1

Achievements and Recognition

• Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science, Australian Academy of Health & Medical Sciences, and Australian Academy of Technology & Engineering3
• Associate Member of the European Molecular Biology Organization3
• Received numerous awards, including the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Medal and the Human Genome Organisation Chen Medal3

Recent Work

In 2022, Dr. Mattick published a book titled "RNA, the Epicenter of Genomic Information".1 He is currently ranked as the #1 scholar globally in noncoding RNA and #4 in RNA research.35

Professor Mattick's research continues to focus on the role of regulatory RNAs in the evolution and development of complex organisms, challenging traditional views on genomic function and contributing significantly to our understanding of molecular biology.5