Matthew Piggott

Matthew Piggott is an Associate Professor in the School of Molecular Sciences at The University of Western Australia (UWA). He holds academic roles including Chair of the UWA Mutagens and Carcinogens Committee and Chair of the School of Molecular Sciences Safety Committee. His expertise spans Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, and Chemical Biology, with a focus on drug discovery for neurological disorders, cancer immunotherapy, and neglected tropical diseases like Trypanosomiasis.

Dr. Piggott's research includes MDMA-inspired drug development for PTSD and Parkinson’s disease, small molecule immunotherapy targeting nuclear receptors, and anti-inflammatory aldehyde trappers. Collaborations with institutions like Setonix Pharmaceuticals and NeuroVigor Therapeutics highlight his translational work. He has supervised over 20 PhD/Master’s students and research associates since 2005.

His awards include the CO-ADD Chemistry Prize (2016), Biota Award for Medicinal Chemistry (2012), and Athel Beckwith Lectureship (2008). Current projects involve molecular motor design, total synthesis of natural products, and aromatic architectures for electronics.

Teaching responsibilities include courses on drug discovery, biological chemistry, and mass spectrometry. His research aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) addressing health and innovation in developing countries.