High Recognition for Prof. Dr. Manuel Spitschan. The head of the Assistant Professorship of Chronobiology & Health has been awarded the "Society for Research on Biological Rhythms (SRBR) Junior Faculty Research Award." Prof. Dr. Joseph Takahashi from the University of Texas Southwestern announced the award at the banquet of the SRBR conference, which is held every two years. The event occurred from May 18 to 22, 2024 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
"This recognition reflects my efforts in the chronobiology field and my team's excellent work. Our research on the interaction between light and human circadian physiology offers important insights that can improve our understanding of our internal clock. I am grateful for the support of my colleagues and look forward to continuing to contribute to the development of this significant field of research," explained Prof. Spitschan.
The neuroscientist was honored for his outstanding scientific achievements in chronobiology. In addition to his professorship at TUM, Prof. Spitschan also leads the Max Planck Research Group at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics. In his scientific work, Spitschan focuses on merging circadian and visual neuroscience to understand how light influences human circadian and neuroendocrine physiology. Spitschan uses state-of-the-art stimulation methods to activate the underlying photoreceptor mechanisms.
Prof. Spitschan's scientific commitment is demonstrated not only through numerous publications. He also edits for renowned journals like the "Journal of Biological Rhythms" and “Clocks & Sleep”. He brings his expertise to political hearings, such as in the "Science Committee" of the "House of Lords" in the British Parliament. He is dedicated to promoting young scientists and takes on leadership roles in various committees, including the “CIE Joint Technical Committee 20 on wearable light loggers”. Furthermore, he shares his knowledge through different content formats, as his book "Enlighten Your Clock" and the podcast "Light O'Clock" illustrate.
Society for Research on Biological Rhythms
The Society for Research on Biological Rhythms promotes peer-reviewed science and evidence-based strategies in sleep and circadian biology. Since its founding in 1986, the SRBR has united international scientists, clinicians, and industry experts committed to basic and applied research on all aspects of biological rhythms. Through conferences, journals, and public outreach, the SRBR supports scientists worldwide and fosters their education, engagement, and integration.
The SRBR also advocates for the study of sleep and other biological rhythms by informing government representatives and the public about the need for adequate funding and support and the positive impacts on human health and the economy.
To the homepage of the Assistant Professorship of Chronobiology & Health
To the homepage of the Translational Sensory and Circadian Neuroscience Unit (MPS/TUM/TUMCREATE)
To the podcast "Light O'Clock"
To the homepage of the Society for Research on Biological Rhythms
Contact:
Prof. Dr. Manuel Spitschan
Assistant Professorship of Chronobiology & Health
Georg-Brauchle-Ring 60/62
80992 Munich
Phone: 089 289 24544
E-mail: manuel.spitschan(at)tum.de
Text: Bastian Daneyko
Photos: private