Center for Human Sleep Science

We investigate the role of sleep in human health and disease. We do so using brain imaging methods (MRI, PET scanning), high-density sleep EEG recordings, genomics, proteomics, autonomic physiology, brain stimulation, and cognitive testing.

We address issues of both wellness and disease. Disorders that we currently tackle include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, cancer, depression, anxiety, insomnia, cardiovascular disease, drug abuse, obesity and diabetes. 

​Our goal, unachievable as it may be: Understand everything about sleep's impact on the human being, from birth to death, in health and in sickness.

We are, after all, biologically wondrous things, in part, because of sleep.

The center is located in the Department of Psychology at the University of California, Berkeley, in association with the Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute and the Henry H. Wheeler Jr. Brain Imaging Center.

Website
www.humansleepscience.com/
Director
Matthew Walker
Email
mpwalker@berkeley.edu

In News

Sleepless and Selfish: Lack of Sleep Makes Us Less Generous

Humans help each other — it’s one of the foundations of civilized society. But a new study by scientists at the University of California, Berkeley, reveals that a lack of sleep blunts this fundamental human attribute, with real-world consequences.

Poor sleep triggers viral loneliness and social rejection

Poor sleep can literally kill your social life. UC Berkeley researchers have found that sleep-deprived people feel lonelier and less inclined to engage with others, avoiding close contact in much the same way as people with social anxiety.