Molly Matty, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Biology

Molly Matty is a broadly trained biologist with training in genetics, microbiology, and behavioral neuroscience; her lab will combine all these fields to explore the interaction between the gut microbiota, stress, and behavior. Molly completed her postdoctoral training at the Salk Institute, where her work identified the genetic underpinnings of starvation-induced behaviors in the worm Caenorhabditis elegans. While at the Salk Institute, she prioritized community-building for graduate students, postdocs, and minoritized communities. She was an active member in the Salk Education Outreach team, bringing her science to the greater San Diego community. Molly received her Ph.D. in genetics and genomics from Duke University, where she sought to identify new therapies for tuberculosis using zebrafish as a model system. While at Duke University, Molly started an outreach group to bring science to local children and their families. Molly completed her bachelor’s degree in chemistry at North Carolina State University (NCSU.) While at NCSU, Molly had opportunities to do undergraduate research in biochemistry and genetics and worked as the general manager and a DJ at the college radio station. Molly is heavily involved in science mentorship for students across the globe, participating in several programs such as Cientifico Latino’s Graduate Student Mentor Initiative, the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics & Native Americans in Science Conference mentor judging, the Scientific Research and Education Network, the League of Extraordinary Scientists & Engineers, and started VASE, an undergraduate mentoring program to build a global network of students exploring their values and goals within science and medicine. As a native of rural and resource-limited northwest Florida, Molly wants everyone to feel empowered to explore biology. While not in the lab, classroom, or public science events, Molly enjoys baking, going on mossy hikes, watching sci-fi movies, and is an avid coffee drinker.