Northwestern University · NeuroscienceThe Sleep Spectrum Lab
Phyllis C. Zee · Evanston, Illinois
Research Focus
Dr. Phyllis C. Zee's lab focuses on understanding sleep disorders, especially Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder (DSWPD) and insomnia in older adults. The lab investigates the physiological and behavioral factors that influence sleep quality and cognitive function. By examining different phenotypes of sleep disorders and their underlying mechanisms, the research aims to develop personalized treatment strategies to improve sleep and overall health in affected individuals.
circadian rhythmsleep-wake disordersinsomniacognitive functionnoradrenergic systemsleep qualitypersonalized medicinelight sensitivityphysiological assessmentaging
Research Aims
5AIM 01Identify physiological differences between DSWPD subtypes to enhance diagnosis and treatment.
AIM 02Evaluate the role of light sensitivity in patients with DSWPD.
AIM 03Study the impact of noradrenergic activity on sleep and cognitive function in older adults with insomnia.
AIM 04Determine the effectiveness of bright light exposure in improving sleep and cognition in insomnia patients.
AIM 05Develop personalized treatment algorithms based on physiological and behavioral biomarkers.
Skills the Lab Values
pupillometryactigraphydim light melatonin samplingelectroencephalogram (EEG)cognitive assessmentplasma norepinephrine measurementclonidine suppression testbright light interventionstatistical modelingpatient enrollment
Output against the department
Publications597top 9% of dept.58th of 671
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations29ktop 14% of dept.92nd of 671
this lab
most citedleast cited
Career totals from OpenAlex, compared against labs that share a department. A department spans everything from one paper to tens of thousands, so bar heights are on a log scale — otherwise the largest lab would flatten every other bar to a line.