Richard Mattes

Richard Mattes, Distinguished Professor of Nutrition Science at Purdue University, also holds adjunct appointments at Indiana University School of Medicine and Monell Chemical Senses Center. He directs the Ingestive Behavior Research Center and contributes expertise in taste, appetite, and energy balance to multiple departments including Public Health and Food Science.

Education:

• BS in Biology, University of Michigan
• MPH, University of Michigan
• PhD in Human Nutrition, Cornell University
• Post-doctoral training, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Monell Chemical Senses Center

Dr. Mattes’s research integrates sensory science with metabolic physiology to understand how taste perception and cephalic phase responses influence food intake and body-weight regulation. His laboratory investigates the sensory properties of macronutrients—particularly fatty acids and low-calorie sweeteners—and their downstream effects on appetite, glycemia, and energy balance. Recent work emphasizes nut consumption (especially almonds), ultra-processed foods, and pharmacologic agents such as tirzepatide to modulate ingestive behavior.

Across more than 300 peer-reviewed publications, a clear trajectory emerges: rigorous clinical trials coupled with mechanistic studies that translate sensory signals into measurable metabolic outcomes. Themes include the role of nuts in improving insulin sensitivity, the differential physiologic effects of low-calorie sweeteners, and the neuro-behavioral pathways targeted by incretin-based obesity pharmacotherapy.

Scientific Awards & Honors:

• David Kritchevsky Career Achievement Award (2023)
• Fellow, American Society for Nutrition (2023)
• Volunteer of the Year, ASN Foundation (2022)
• W.O. Atwater Award (2020)
• Award for Excellence in Research, International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (2017)
• Babcock-Hart Award (2013)
• Elaine R. Monsen Award (2008)

Current & Recent Grant Support:

• NIDCD T32 Interdisciplinary Training in Signals Controlling Ingestion and Obesity (PI)
• NIFA Conference on the Pace of Life and Feeding: Health Implications
• Almond Board of California – Effects of Almonds on Glycemia
• Gelesis – Effects of a Novel Fiber System on Appetite and Energy Balance
• NIDDK – Pre-Ingestive Influences on Solid and Fluid Food Intake in Lean and Obese Adults

Dr. Mattes leads the Ingestive Behavior Research Center at Purdue, an interdisciplinary hub that trains pre- and post-doctoral fellows in cutting-edge methodologies spanning sensory science, metabolomics, and behavioral phenotyping to combat obesity and related metabolic diseases.