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Emily Stanyer

ECR Awardee Blogs 1: Research visit to the University of Freiburg

Updated: Oct 21

Dr Emily Stanyer is a postdoctoral researcher working in the Experimental and Clinical Sleep Medicine group at the University of Oxford. She is interested in investigating the mechanistic relationships between sleep, health, and disease with a particular interest in understanding how sleep may contribute to mental health disorders. Her postdoctoral work aims to investigate whether sleep restriction therapy for insomnia can be used to treat depression, in a randomised control trial, and to elucidate potential mechanisms underlying this. She was awarded a Circadian Mental Health Network Early Career Researcher Award to undertake a research visit, read about Emily's experience below.


 

In February 2024, I was honoured to receive the Circadian Mental Health Network Early Career Researcher Fund. My application allowed me to visit the Pathophysiology of Insomnia research group at Universitätsklinikum Freiburg during June 2024. This group, under the leadership of Professor Dr. Dr. Kai Spiegelhalder and Professor Dr. Dieter Riemann, is at the forefront of sleep medicine and research, particularly within the context of mental health. Having followed their groundbreaking work for years, meeting these leading figures in person was an inspiring and significant milestone in my research career.



My postdoctoral research focuses on sleep interventions, specifically the implementation and mechanisms of Sleep Restriction Therapy for depression. The Freiburg group’s expertise in insomnia treatment and mental health research aligned perfectly with my work, making this visit an incredible learning experience. During their weekly laboratory meeting I presented my latest findings on sleep therapies for mental health as well as my proposed protocols. This was particularly useful, as their feedback and insights were directly applicable to my work.



I also had the privilege of engaging in one-on-one meetings with each member of the laboratory. I was fascinated by how seamlessly the group’s clinical and research activities are integrated. Unlike in the UK, PhD students in Freiburg have the opportunity to be more closely involved in both clinical practice and research, leading to a clinical diploma, which provides a unique and enriching environment for academic development.



One of the most exciting outcomes of my visit was the initiation of a research collaboration. Over the coming year, we will be working together on a joint project focused on patient’s adherence to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia. This collaboration will hopefully enhance our understanding of effective treatments and contribute valuable insights to the field of sleep medicine.



Beyond the academic benefits, the visit was also filled with social and cultural experiences. From exploring the beautiful University Botanical Garden next door to embarking on a group hike up a nearby mountain, Freiburg proved to be an extraordinary city! I also indulged in local German cuisine, including a memorable laboratory group meal featuring local delicacies: spargel (white asparagus), potato salad, and Wiener sausages. I am already looking forward to returning!



I am deeply grateful to the Circadian Mental Health Network for providing me with this incredible opportunity. The life-long friendships and collaborations I’ve formed will undoubtedly strengthen my research and career. I encourage other early career researchers in the field of sleep and circadian mental health to apply for this award.


Blog by Emily Stanyer



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