What

We perform science-driven applied-research projects in the fields of chronobiology and sleep regulation in relation to optimising health, wellbeing and performance. Both laboratory studies, if necessary under time isolation conditions, as well as experimental field studies with humans, are our expertise. We can either run complete projects, or can assist in all or part of project preparation, data collection and/or data analysis

Facilities / Tools

Laboratory studies

We have 4 time-isolation units available with programmable dynamic lighting system for studies involving humans at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences of the University of Groningen, The Netherlands. The laboratory is equipped with sleep EEG. body/skin temperature sensors, a tailored battery of cognitive tests, and pupilometry equipment is available.

Field studies

We are able to collect ambulatory data of rest-activity and light exposure, sleep EEG, body/skin temperature, tailored online/offline diaries, questionnaires and cognitive tests.

Environmental light scan

With the help of a spectroradiometer we perform a complete light scan of the environment and translate this information into its potential non-image forming effects on physiology, alertness and behaviour.

Endocrinology laboratory and Isotope laboratory

In collaboration with the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences of the University of Groningen, The Netherlands, we have an Endocrinology laboratory and an Isotope laboratory available for biomarker analyses. We have highly experienced personnel and we take part in inter-laboratory comparisons. We analyse salivary melatonin rhythms (RIA), urinary 6-sulfatoxy melatonin patterns (ELISA), and salivary cortisol rhythms (RIA). For other analyses please contact us.

Research-2
Clients
  • We run studies for small, medium and large enterprises on a contract basis
  • We support scientists and PhD students who study 24h rhythms in humans.
Examples

Evaluate non-image forming effects of light

Evaluate non-image forming effects of light on sleep, melatonin, cortisol, mood and performance in late chronotypes.

Evaluate the effects of a dynamic lighting pattern

Evaluate the effects of a dynamic lighting pattern on sleep, mood, and medication used in the demented elderly within a longitudinal 2 year-follow up nursing home study.

Evaluate effects of shift work interventions

Evaluate the effects of shift-work interventions to improve sleep and health, e.g. powernaps and light exposure. https://www.politieacademie.nl/kennisenonderzoek/kennis/mediatheek/PDF/83954.pdf

Evaluate sleep problems and sleep timing

Evaluate sleep problems and sleep timing in (patient) populations by means of questionnaires.

Perform a light scan of a 24h working environment

Perform a light scan of a 24h working environment and report on potential physiological and behavioural effects around the 24-hour cycle, e.g. effects on alertness, melatonin concentration, and cortisol concentration.