Professor of Neuroscience at UC Berkeley, New York Times Bestselling Author of ‘Why We Sleep’ & The Founder of The Centre For Human Sleep Science
Matthew Walker’s Biography:
Matthew Walker is a neuroscientist, author and internationally recognised expert on sleep science, best known for his research into the impact of sleep on brain function, health and performance. A Professor of Neuroscience and Psychology at the University of California, Berkeley, he has helped transform public understanding of sleep through academic research, bestselling books and global speaking engagements. Widely described as one of the world’s leading voices on sleep, his work bridges neuroscience, psychology and preventative health.
Matthew began his academic journey studying neuroscience and neurophysiology, earning a PhD in Neurophysiology from Newcastle University. His early research focused on the relationship between sleep and brain function, particularly memory and cognitive performance. Following his doctoral work, he moved into academic roles that allowed him to deepen his research into sleep’s role in learning, emotional regulation and long-term health outcomes.
In 2004, Matthew became an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School, where he advanced research into human sleep cycles and brain health. In 2007, he joined the University of California, Berkeley, as Professor of Neuroscience and Psychology, where he established himself as a global authority on sleep science. His research gained widespread recognition for highlighting the links between sleep deprivation and chronic illness, productivity and emotional wellbeing.
Matthew’s international profile expanded with the publication of ‘Why We Sleep’, which became a Sunday Times and New York Times bestseller. In 2018, he collaborated with Project Baseline and Google to explore sleep health and disease prevention through large-scale research initiatives. He has hosted ‘The Science of Sleep’ and appeared on major platforms including ‘The Joe Rogan Experience’ highloghting his ability to connect with audiences worldwide.
Why Hire Matthew Walker?
Matthew is hired as a speaker for his ability to translate complex neuroscience into clear, actionable insights that immediately impact productivity, wellbeing and leadership performance. Recognised by the Financial Times as one of the world’s most famous sleep experts, he helps organisations understand how sleep affects decision-making, creativity and resilience at both individual and organisational levels.
His TED Talk, ‘Sleep Is Your Superpower‘, has reached over 16 million people worldwide, demonstrating his skill in making academic research engaging and practical. Audiences leave with evidence-based strategies that challenge conventional work culture and redefine how performance, health and longevity are supported in modern workplaces.
Matthew Walker’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Matt Walker’s remarkable career:
- 2026 – Appointed inaugural Director of the Sleep Innovation Laboratories at the Center for BrainHealth and Professor of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Texas at Dallas.
- 2025 – Appointed Estée Lauder’s first-ever Global Sleep Science Advisor, helping translate sleep research into global educational initiatives.
- 2019 – Delivered a TED Talk on sleep science, which has since gained over 12 million views worldwide.
- 2018 – Collaborated with Project Baseline and Google to explore sleep health and disease prevention through large-scale research.
- 2018 – Featured as a guest on The Joe Rogan Experience, helping bring sleep science to mainstream global audiences.
- 2017 – Published Why We Sleep, which became a Sunday Times and New York Times bestseller.
- 2007 – Appointed Professor of Neuroscience and Psychology at the University of California, Berkeley.
- 2004 – Became Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School, advancing research into sleep and brain health.
- 1990s – Completed a PhD in Neurophysiology at Newcastle University, specialising in sleep and brain science.
Videos
Matthew Walker’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“A thoughtful tour through the still dimly understood state of being asleep …Why We Sleep is a book on a mission. Walker is in love with sleep and wants us to fall in love with sleep, too. And it is urgent. He makes the argument, persuasively, that we are in the midst of a ‘silent sleep loss epidemic’ that poses ‘the greatest public health challenge we face in the 21st century’ … Why We Sleep mounts a persuasive, exuberant case for addressing our societal sleep deficit and for the virtues of sleep itself. It is recommended for night-table reading in the most pragmatic sense.” – New York Times Book Review
“A neuroscientist has found a revolutionary way of being cleverer, more attractive, slimmer, happier, healthier and of warding off cancer — a good night’s shut-eye … It’s probably a little too soon to tell you that Why We Sleep saved my life, but I can tell you that it’s been an eye-opener.” – The Guardian
“Fascinating … Walker describes how our resting habits have changed throughout history; the connection between sleep, chronic disease, and life span; and why the pills and aids we use to sleep longer and deeper are actually making our nights worse. Most important, he gives us simple, actionable ways to get better rest – tonight.” – Men’s Journal
“Most of us have no idea what we do with a third of our lives. In this lucid and engaging book, Matt Walker explains the new science that is rapidly solving this age-old mystery. Why We Sleep is a canny pleasure that will have you turning pages well past your bedtime.” – Daniel, Professor of Psychology at Harvard & Author of Stumbling on Happiness
“It was absolutely perfect! Matt is such a delight to work with and the audience loved, loved his presentation.” – The Cooper Companies
Speaking Topics
Matthew Walker’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Sleep
- Healthy living
- Innovation
- Medicine
How Much Does Matthew Walker Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Matthew Walker?
The cost of hiring Matthew Walker depends on your event format, location, duration and any travel requirements. For an accurate and tailored quote, please contact a London Keynote Speakers Agency booking agent for expert guidance.