American Matthew L. Tompkins traded magic for experimental psychology before earning a doctorate in Experimental Psychology from the University of Oxford. He graduated in Psychology from the State University of New York at Geneseo and completed a Master of Psychological Research at Oxford. His research, which has been echoed by several international media (Washington Post and BBC Future, among others), focuses on the study of the cognitive psychology of illusions. Matthew dedicated himself professionally to magic before beginning his academic career, an experience that continues to influence his work. He has been the first member of the Círculo Mágico admitted to society thanks to his academic publications. He also writes articles on esoteric science and historical affairs.