Matthew Robert Pratt

Matthew Robert Pratt is a Professor of Chemistry at the University of Southern California (USC), affiliated with the USC Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience since joining the faculty in 2009. His research laboratory develops chemical tools to investigate fundamental biological processes.

Education:

• B.S. in Biochemistry and Mathematics, University of Arizona (1999)
• Ph.D. in Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley (2004)

Research Interests: Professor Pratt specializes in chemical biology approaches to posttranslational modifications (PTMs), particularly O-GlcNAc glycosylation and ubiquitination. His lab creates bioorthogonal chemical reporters and synthetic proteins to study how PTMs regulate cellular responses to metabolic stress and contribute to diseases like cancer and neurodegeneration. This interdisciplinary work integrates organic synthesis, protein biochemistry, and cellular biology to decode molecular mechanisms in living systems.

Scientific Awards:

• American Cancer Society Postdoctoral Fellowship

Advising and Grants: Professor Pratt mentors graduate students through USC's Chemistry PhD program and recruits postdoctoral researchers directly. His laboratory operations are supported by research grants enabling chemical tool development for PTM analysis. Prospective postdocs must submit cover letters, CVs, and research summaries for consideration.

Lab and Team: The Pratt Lab operates within the USC Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience (1002 West Childs Way, MCB 114), employing multidisciplinary teams to investigate PTM roles in disease pathways through organic synthesis, genetic engineering, and cellular assays.