Michael Grandner Elected to Sleep Research Society Board and Recognized as Top Sleep Researcher

Michael Grandner, PhD, MTR, an associate professor at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson and director of the college’s Sleep and Health Research Program in the Department of Psychiatry, has been elected to the Sleep Research Society’s board of directors for the 2025-2026 term. He has also been named the most impactful researcher in sleep and sleep medicine over the last five years by ScholarGPS.

With over 25 years as a member of the Sleep Research Society, Grandner aims to foster collaboration across institutions and ensure that the University of Arizona plays a significant role in guiding the primary scientific organization in sleep science. "I have always looked up to the great people who led the SRS over the years, and I always wanted to one day be among that group," Grandner remarked. “I am honored to have the opportunity to help steer the field I care about so much.”

The University of Arizona is recognized globally for its contributions to sleep research, covering various areas such as sleep deprivation, sleep apnea, insomnia, and overall sleep health. Grandner’s lab specifically investigates the connections between poor sleep health and conditions like cardiovascular disease, obesity, and suicide risk. He noted that his research also examines social and environmental influences on sleep, particularly at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Jordan F. Karp, MD, a professor and chair of the Department of Psychiatry, praised Grandner's election to the Sleep Research Society’s board, calling it a testament to his expertise and leadership in sleep research. "It reflects his dedication to helping people achieve the restorative sleep they need for improved physical and mental health outcomes," Karp said.

In addition to his board position, Grandner has been recognized as the highest-ranked sleep researcher by ScholarGPS, which evaluates authors based on their publication output and impact. The organization’s Highly Ranked Scholars 2024 list considers both the number of publications and their quality as measured by citations and the h-index.

Grandner emphasized the importance of studying sleep, stating, "Sleep is an amazing thing to study because it's universal and connects all of us — everyone sleeps. It integrates many different systems in our brain and body, and improving sleep health can significantly impact many people's daily lives."