Matt Johnson

Professor Matt Johnson is a Professor of Biochemistry and Director of Research at the University of Sheffield's School of Biosciences. He holds a Chair in Biochemistry and previously served as Reader in Biochemistry (2018–2021) and Lecturer in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (2015–2017). His career includes roles such as Krebs Institute Research Fellow (2012–2017) and Leverhulme Research Fellow (2012–2015).

Education:

• PhD in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield (2003–2007)
• Postdoctoral Research Associate at Queen Mary University of London (2007–2011)

Research Interests:

• Thylakoid Membrane Dynamics: Focuses on the structural and functional regulation of photosynthetic membranes, including thylakoid stacking and state transitions.
• Single-Molecule Electron Transfer: Investigates transient protein interactions using atomic force microscopy and force spectroscopy.
• Photoprotective Energy Dissipation: Studies mechanisms of light energy quenching in plants, collaborating with MIT and Okazaki Institute.

Publications: Recent work explores electron transport chain structure, thylakoid membrane architecture, and photosynthetic control mechanisms. His research bridges biochemistry, biophysics, and plant biology.

Awards:

• Wain Medal in Biochemistry (2020)
• Colworth Medal (2018)
• MBB Teaching Prize (2017)
• Society for Experimental Biology Medal (2016)

Teaching & Leadership: Coordinates MBB266 (Biostructures, Energetics and Synthesis) and teaches undergraduate biochemistry modules. Leads the Sheffield Photosynthesis Research group and collaborates with the Neuroscience Institute.