Paul M. Macey

Paul M. Macey is a Professor at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), affiliated with the School of Nursing. His research focuses on the neural mechanisms underlying obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), integrating neuroimaging techniques such as MRI to study brain structure and function. He explores how psychological factors like depression and anxiety, alongside autonomic nervous system dysregulation, contribute to health outcomes in sleep-disordered breathing conditions. Dr. Macey collaborates internationally on brain imaging projects and has extended his work to heart failure and pediatric conditions like Congenital Central Hypoventilation Syndrome (CCHS). His interdisciplinary approach bridges engineering and clinical sciences, emphasizing practical solutions for patient care.

Dr. Macey holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Honors) in Electrical Engineering from the University of Canterbury, New Zealand (1991), followed by a PhD in Electrical Engineering from the same institution in 1998. These foundational studies in engineering provide expertise in medical technology and imaging methods.

In his research, Dr. Macey investigates the interplay between brain physiology and physical/psychological stressors in OSA patients. Key areas include using MRI to assess brain changes linked to breathing, blood pressure regulation, and mood disorders. He evaluates interventions like CPAP therapy and mindfulness-based practices for their efficacy in symptom management. His work also examines comorbidities such as OSA and diabetes in veterans, the placebo effect in analgesia, and the impact of social media on mental health in older adults.

His publications reflect a focus on pain modulation, neuroimaging advancements, and the implications of childhood trauma on adult health. Dr. Macey has contributed to developing novel breathing-assistance devices and imaging techniques, enhancing clinical applications in respiratory and neurological disorders.

• No scientific awards mentioned in the provided information.

In advising and grants, Dr. Macey does not list current advisees but leads collaborative projects funded through interdisciplinary initiatives. These projects address topics such as CPAP efficacy, stress-management interventions, and global health challenges. His research group operates within UCLA’s advanced imaging facilities, employing state-of-the-art MRI technologies to study brain function in real-world settings.

Dr. Macey’s lab focuses on cutting-edge neuroimaging applications, including longitudinal studies of migraine pain pathways and pediatric respiratory conditions. He collaborates with teams across UCLA and international universities to tackle complex health issues, ensuring his work remains grounded in clinical relevance and translational outcomes.