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Department of

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Kimberly Matulef, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Chemistry and Biochemistry

Kimberly I. Matulef, Ph.D.,  joined the faculty in 2008.  Her expertise is in biochemistry, and her research focuses on understanding how proteins found in cellular membranes regulate the flow of ions into and out of cells. 

Education

Ph.D., University of Washington, Molecular and Cellular Biology
B.A./M.S., Brandeis University, Biochemistry

Postdoctoral work, Stanford University, Molecular and Cellular Physiology Department

Scholarly and Creative Work

Matulef’s laboratory studies a family of proteins called the CLC “chloride channel” family.  These proteins are found in the membrane and are necessary for transferring charged ions including chloride and protons into and out of cells.  Movement of these ions is critical for everything from acid survival in bacteria to proper development and function of the muscle, brain, cardiovascular system, kidneys, and bones in human.   Her laboratory is interested in the long-term question of how this family of proteins has evolved to have such wide variety of critical functions.  Matulef published a review article titled “Cyclic Nucleotide-gated Ion Channels” in the Encyclopedia of Life Sciences.  She has also published in journals including ACS Chemical Biology, Biophysical Journal, and Neuron.  She received a Research Corporation Cottrell College Start-up Award and Camille and Henry Dreyfus Faculty Start-up Award in January 2009.

Teaching Interests

Matulef teaches biophysical chemistry, biochemistry, and DNA science and technology.  She likes to keep her lectures interactive and use visuals as much as possible.  She aims to teach students to solve problems, think critically, learn from their mistakes, and pursue their passions.