Expert profile

Dr. Matthew Walker

Researcher

Sleep neuroscience • circadian biology • memory consolidation

1Discussion
112 minAnalysed
Last reviewed: Jun 23, 2026·Credential: PhD·First indexed: Jun 23, 2026

About the expert

Focus: Sleep as a foundational pillar of physical and cognitive health

Matthew Walker is a neuroscientist and Professor of Neuroscience and Psychology at UC Berkeley, where he directs the Center for Human Sleep Science. He is the author of 'Why We Sleep' and has published widely on sleep, memory, and emotional regulation. His research examines how sleep quantity, quality, and timing shape long-term health outcomes including Alzheimer's risk.

Expert discussions with Dr. Matthew Walker

Dr. Matt Walker: Why Sleep Determines How Long You Live
Dr. Matthew Walker, UC Berkeley neuroscientist and author of 'Why We Sleep,' discusses sleep as a foundational pillar of physical and cognitive health. He introduces the QQRT framework — quantity, quality, regularity, timing — and explains how deep sleep may protect against Alzheimer's via glymphatic waste clearance, while REM sleep processes emotions and consolidates memory.