Dr. Matthew Akamatsu

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Matthew Akamatsu is an Assistant Professor at the University of Washington in the Department of Biology. He received his PhD in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry from Yale University, where he was the first student in Yale's Integrated Graduate Program in Physics, Engineering, and Biology. His research interests lie in the intersection of biomechanics and computational biology, focusing specifically on the actin cytoskeleton and its role in mammalian endocytosis. Akamatsu’s work employs mathematical modeling and genome editing techniques to investigate how the cytoskeleton generates force and adapts to mechanical changes. Following his doctoral studies, he conducted postdoctoral research at UC Berkeley in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology. He has been recognized for his contributions to the field, receiving the K99 Pathway Independence Award and the UC Berkeley Outstanding Postdoc Award. His lab at the University of Washington, which he started in June 2022, aims to uncover the mechanisms that govern actin network architecture and function in cellular processes.

Research Interests

Experience

Assistant Professor

2022-06-01 — Present

University of Washington • Seattle, WA

Research focuses on the mechanics of the actin cytoskeleton and its role in endocytosis.

Awards

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K99 Pathway Independence Award

2020-01-01
#

UC Berkeley Outstanding Postdoc Award

2020-01-01

Requirements for University of Washington

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:80
IELTS
Overall
Required:6.5
Duolingo
Overall Score
Required:105
Overall
Required:105
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Resume/CV
  • English proficiency scores (for international students)
Specialization Notes

Standard Graduate School requirements for University of Washington apply to most departments listed unless specified otherwise by the program.