Charmane Eastman

American psychologist and researcher

Charmane Eastman, Ph.D.

Charmane Eastman is an American psychologist and researcher known for her work in the field of chronobiology and sleep medicine. She is a professor at the Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois, where she directs the Biological Rhythms Research Laboratory.

Early life and education

Charmane Eastman was born in the United States. She pursued her undergraduate studies in psychology, followed by a Ph.D. in the same field. Her interest in the biological underpinnings of behavior led her to specialize in chronobiology, the study of biological rhythms.

Career

Eastman began her career as a researcher focusing on the effects of light on human circadian rhythms. Her work has been instrumental in understanding how light exposure can be used to shift the circadian clock and improve sleep patterns. She has published extensively on the topic and is considered a leading expert in the field.

Biological Rhythms Research Laboratory

At the Biological Rhythms Research Laboratory, Eastman and her team conduct research on the effects of light and other environmental cues on human circadian rhythms. Their work has applications in treating sleep disorders, such as shift work disorder and jet lag.

Research contributions

Eastman's research has contributed significantly to the understanding of how light therapy can be used to treat circadian rhythm disorders. Her studies have shown that carefully timed exposure to bright light can help realign the circadian clock, improving sleep and alertness in individuals with disrupted sleep patterns.

Awards and recognition

Eastman has received numerous awards for her contributions to the field of sleep medicine and chronobiology. Her work is widely cited in scientific literature, and she is a sought-after speaker at international conferences.

Related pages

• Chronobiology
• Circadian rhythm
• Sleep medicine
• Shift work disorder
• Jet lag