Matthias Kneussel

Prof. Dr. Matthias Kneussel is a German neuroscientist and director of the Institute for Molecular Neurogenetics at the Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH) since 2010. His work focuses on molecular mechanisms of synaptic plasticity, cytoskeletal dynamics, and their roles in learning, memory, and neurodegenerative diseases. Kneussel has held leadership roles in major research initiatives, including the DFG-Research Unit FOR 2419 (2016–2023) and the German Neuroscience Society executive committee (2015–2019).

• Education: PhD from University College London (1997), habilitations in Molecular Biology (University of Hamburg, 2005) and Biochemistry (University of Frankfurt, 2004).
• Awards: Chica and Heinz Schaller Foundation Award (2006), Young Investigator Award (2001).

Research interests include synaptic receptor trafficking, molecular motors (e.g., kinesins and myosins), and the role of cytoskeletal modifications in neuronal function. His lab uses mouse models to study how synaptic activity influences intracellular transport and protein targeting in learning-related processes. Notable contributions include discoveries about gephyrin’s role in inhibitory synapse formation and the interplay between tau protein aggregation and tubulin modifications in neurodegeneration.

Publications highlight advancements in understanding synaptic plasticity mechanisms, with recent work on muskelin’s role in actin-dependent synaptic changes and the impact of tubulin polyglutamylation on cognitive deficits. Collaborations span neurobiology, genetics, and cell biology, addressing translational questions in dementia and psychiatric disorders.