The Sleeping Brain: From Cells to Society

Undergraduate

We spend about one-third of our lives asleep—yet most people know surprisingly little about what sleep is, what happens in the brain and body during sleep, and why it matters for our daily lives. This course explores the science of sleep from multiple perspectives, examining how sleep supports thinking, emotion, health, and behavior. Students will be introduced to the biological mechanisms of sleep and circadian rhythms, as well as the research methods scientists use to study them. We consider how sleep functions in real-world contexts, from individual habits to broader social influences. A central theme of the course is how sleep is shaped not only by biology, but also by social environments. We examine how factors such as family life, work schedules, neighborhoods, and communities influence when, how, and how well we sleep. By connecting insights from neuroscience, psychology, and public health, the course provides a comprehensive understanding of sleep across levels—from cells to communities. MW 1:05pm-2:20pm