Joao Matos

Joao Matos is a University Professor at the Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Perutz Labs, University of Vienna, specializing in molecular mechanisms of meiosis, homologous recombination, and genome instability. His research employs genetic, biochemical, and proteomic approaches in model organisms including budding yeast and C. elegans to elucidate DNA repair pathways critical for chromosome segregation.

His primary research areas encompass Meiosis, Homologous Recombination, DNA Repair, and Genome Instability, with specific focus on crossover formation, regulation of helicases (Mer3/HFM1, BLM), resolvases (Yen1/GEN1), and phosphorylation-dependent control of DNA repair enzymes. Recent work explores proteome rewiring during gametogenesis and metabolic enzyme polymers.

Analysis of his 2020-2025 publications reveals consistent emphasis on meiotic recombination mechanisms, particularly helicase/resolvase regulation, D-loop dynamics, and crossover control, alongside methodological innovations in cryo-ET and proteomics. Key trends include cell cycle kinase coordination of DNA repair and stress-induced proteome remodeling.

Dr. Matos has received prestigious recognition including:

• EMBO Long-term Fellowship (2010)
• EMBO Young Investigator Award (2018)
• ERC Consolidator Grant (2020)

He currently leads three major projects: Genome Instability (2024-2028, collaborative study of DNA repair mechanisms), Vienna International PostDoc Program VIP2 (2023-2025, postdoctoral support), and Meiosis (2022-2026, molecular basis of recombination). His group mentors PhD students and postdocs while collaborating internationally on genome stability research.

Based at the Max Perutz Labs (joint venture of University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna), his team utilizes advanced cryo-electron tomography, proteomics, and genetic screening, with upcoming leadership in the 2025 EMBO Workshop on Meiosis and active participation in grant panels.