Exploring Sleep Through Open Data

HEB 117 Subject & Catalog Number

Description

Discover how and why we sleep in this interdisciplinary course that introduces the field of sleep research through open-source datasets—including the National Sleep Research Resource (NSRR), Allen Institute for Brain Science, NHANES, and the Sleep Disorders Knowledge Portal. In this course students will:

-- Analyze real-world imaging and genetic data to investigate the biology of sleep and its evolutionary roots.

-- Explore how societal factors—from work schedules to technology—shape sleep habits and health outcomes.

-- Develop critical data analysis skills using Python and R, empowering students to conduct independent research and contribute to ongoing discoveries in sleep science.

Prior programming experience and familiarity with statistical methods of data analysis are advantageous but not required. This course is ideal for students interested in health sciences, neuroscience, sociology, public health, or anyone curious about why we sleep.

Course Notes

This course counts as a Junior Research Seminar.