Matthew Ulgherait

Matthew Ulgherait, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Nutrition at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health. His research focuses on aging mechanisms, metabolism, and nutrition, using Drosophila as a model system. He explores how circadian rhythms, feeding timing, and nutrient signaling influence lifespan and healthspan.

• Education:
  • BS in Biology, Drexel University (2007)
  • PhD in Biological Chemistry, UCLA (2014)
  • Postdoctoral Fellow, Columbia University Medical Center (2023)
• Research Interests:
  • Aging and longevity
  • Metabolic signaling pathways
  • Autophagy and circadian control
  • Time-restricted feeding interventions

His recent work demonstrates that circadian-controlled autophagy is critical for the lifespan benefits of time-restricted feeding. Key findings are published in Nature and Nature Communications.

• Awards:
  • Outstanding Postdoctoral Fellow Award (2022)
  • EUREKA Innovation Award (2012)
  • Life Sciences Teaching Awards (2009, 2010)

Dr. Ulgherait also contributes to teaching and undergraduate research training, emphasizing effective grant writing and mentorship.