James K. Wyatt

James K. Wyatt is a Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Rush Medical College, Rush University. He holds multiple leadership roles, including Director of the Section of Sleep Disorders and Sleep-Wake Research, Director of Behavioral Sleep Medicine at the Sleep Disorders Center, and Director of the Sleep Disorders Clerkship. His work focuses on sleep medicine, circadian rhythms, insomnia treatment, and sleep-related comorbidities like obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Wyatt’s research integrates clinical trials, experimental protocols (e.g., forced desynchrony), and behavioral interventions to address sleep disorders and their physiological impacts. He has contributed extensively to understanding circadian misalignment, light therapy efficacy, and mindfulness-based interventions for insomnia.

His research spans over two decades, with notable studies on shift work adaptation, sleep phase disorders, and the interaction between sleep and neurological conditions like chronic migraine. He has authored influential papers on diagnostic methodologies for sleep disorders, therapeutic combinations (e.g., CBT-I and PAP for comorbid insomnia and OSA), and the circadian basis of sleep homeostasis. His work frequently examines clinical gaps and opportunities in sleep medicine, emphasizing translational research to improve patient outcomes.

Dr. Wyatt’s expertise is reflected in his role as a Director overseeing both clinical and educational programs, ensuring integration of research, education, and practice in sleep medicine. His current projects include evaluating novel treatments for circadian rhythm disorders, optimizing shift work adaptation strategies, and advancing personalized sleep interventions through multidisciplinary approaches.