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The Sleep & Health Applied Research Program (SHARP) is a Portland, Oregon-based community of researchers and clinicians investigating how sleep affects the brain across the lifespan, in health and disease. Since 2016, the program has pursued a translational approach, connecting preclinical research in rodent models with studies involving people to understand sleep’s role in cognition, social development, and mental and general health. Its work spans conditions including traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, neurodevelopmental disorders, chronic pain, and neurodegenerative diseases.

SHARP uses a range of research methods, including laboratory experiments, large-scale observational studies, big-data analysis, and randomized clinical intervention trials. Human research may involve sleep assessments, cognitive and pain testing, biomarkers, and advanced imaging. The program aims to identify and test new therapies while building knowledge about the mechanisms linking sleep and brain health. Its researchers also share findings through scientific publications, presentations, and media. SHARP invites people to explore opportunities to join the lab or participate in a study, and emphasizes mentorship, collaboration, scientific rigor, and an inclusive learning environment.