Research focus

We spend a third of our lives sleeping: a time when the brain is highly active. In our research, we focus on the brain processes that occur during sleep. We investigate how this restorative phase regulates fundamental cognitive functions such as learning and memory formation, thereby playing a decisive role in the healthy development of the brain. 

A particular focus is on neuroplasticity, the brain's remarkable ability to adapt, rewire, and compensate for damage. For example, we research how sleep is affected by neurological or psychiatric disorders, as well as traumatic brain injuries.  This understanding forms the basis of our clinical work, in which we specifically use sleep as a therapeutic tool. Our research on adults provides valuable insights that inform and refine our approaches in pediatrics.

To visualize and influence these complex neural processes during sleep, we combine sophisticated behavioral paradigms with state-of-the-art electrophysiological, neuromodulatory, and imaging techniques. These include high-density and mobile electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), pupillometry, actigraphy, finger-tapping analyses, and temporal interference stimulation. 

Another branch of our lab’s research focuses directly on clinical interventions. Using non-invasive methods such as closed-loop auditory stimulation during sleep, we gently intervene in the sleep cycle. This allows us to modulate specific sleep phases and investigate how sleep can be positively influenced: for a better understanding and new therapeutic approaches in pediatrics. 

We are affiliated with the Center for Neuroscience (ZNZ), the University of Zurich (UZH), the Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich (PUK), and the Sleep & Health Alliance Zürich (SHAZ). As part of various projects, we also collaborate with different partners, including the University Hospital of Zurich (USZ), the Lengg Clinic, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETHZ), the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), and the Foundation for Research on Information Technologies in Society (IT'IS Foundation).