Jen Walsh

Jen Walsh serves as the Director of the Centre for Sleep Science within the School of Human Sciences at the University of Western Australia (UWA) and holds a Senior Research Fellow position at the West Australian Sleep Disorders Research Institute at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital. Her academic credentials include a BSc and PhD from Western Australia, along with MSc qualifications.

Dr. Walsh's research spans multiple critical areas in sleep medicine, with particular expertise in sleep physiology, obstructive sleep apnea, insomnia, and the emerging field of cannabis research for sleep disorders. Her work bridges clinical practice and scientific investigation, focusing on both understanding sleep mechanisms and developing effective treatments. She has made significant contributions to understanding upper airway behavior, head and body posture during sleep, and fatigue management strategies.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong trajectory toward innovative treatments for sleep disorders, particularly exploring pharmacological approaches involving cannabinoids and neuromodulation techniques. Her research increasingly incorporates community engagement aspects, especially in culturally appropriate sleep health programs for diverse populations including adolescents and First Nations communities. The interdisciplinary nature of her work connects sleep science with sports medicine, aviation safety, and digital health interventions.

Dr. Walsh has secured substantial research funding with 15 active or completed projects totaling significant research investment. Her collaborative approach is evident in her numerous multi-institutional projects addressing sleep disorders across various populations including helicopter pilots, athletes, and adolescents.

As an educator, she has been heavily involved since 2009 in developing and teaching post-graduate courses in sleep science and dental sleep medicine, demonstrating her commitment to training the next generation of sleep specialists. Her leadership as Director of the Centre for Sleep Science positions her at the forefront of sleep research and education in Australia.