Dr. Cowperthwaite brings the sophistication of academic-based research to the NeuroTexas Institute. He leads the Institute’s first research initiative – the Center for Computational Neuroscience. Dr. Cowperthwaite is involved in collaborating with physicians to develop investigational protocols and study outcome data, and participates in collaborative research studies with The University of Texas. In addition to Dr. Cowperthwaite’s position as Research Director of the NeuroTexas Center for Computational Neuroscience, he serves as a Research Fellow at The University of Texas at Austin Center for Systems and Synthetic Biology.
Dr. Cowperthwaite’s research has focused on cellular and molecular biology. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Plant Biology, magna cum laude, from the University of Maryland in College Park, and a PhD from The University of Texas at Austin in Cellular and Molecular Biology. His dissertation was based on theoretical studies of mutations, and their effect on the adaptation and evolution of biological systems. At the University, he was the co-leader of a team that studied how traits evolve, which may ultimately help scientists and physicians understand why and how certain medical disorders develop.
Throughout his academic career, Dr. Cowperthwaite has received numerous awards and fellowships. His works continue to be published in professional scientific journals.
Curriculum vitae of Matt Cowperthwaite, PhD (PDF) Research Affiliations:
Research Fellow, University of Texas at Austin, Center for Systems & Synthetic Biology
Education:
PhD, The University of Texas at Austin, Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, 2008
Bachelor of Science in Plant Biology, Magna Cum Laude, The University of Maryland, College Park, 1998
Research:
Rutgers University, Research Laboratory Manager for Dr. Hugo K. Dooner (1999-2002)
The University of Maryland, College Park, Undergraduate Research Assistant, 1996-1998
Awards & Fellowships:
University Outstanding Dissertation Award Nominee (2008)
University of Texas Office of Graduate Studies Professional Development Award (2007)
National Institutes of Health Evolution of Infectious Disease Symposium Student Travel Award (2005)
The University of Texas Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Graduate Student Fellowship (2002-2003)
Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society (1996)
The University of Maryland, College Park, M.J. and S.J. Grove Memorial Academic Scholarship