Virginie Sterpenich

Function: Privat-Docent

Group name: Sleep, Emotion and Development Lab (SED) 

Group type: Affiliated

Hosting group: Sophie Schwartz

Affiliations: Department of Basic Neurosciences

Domains: Affective and Social Neurosciences

Research activities

Our lab investigates the fundamental role of sleep in brain function. Specifically, we explore how sleep contributes to memory consolidation and emotional regulation. Using functional MRI (fMRI) and EEG recordings, we analyze brain activity both after a modified night of sleep and during sleep itself to examine the neural replay of information.

A second major focus of our research is the development of sleep physiology across childhood and adolescence. Sleep is crucial for brain maturation during these highly plastic stages and plays a key role in well-being and academic achievement. To support healthy sleep habits, we develop and implement school-based interventions on sleep hygiene and screen use.

Ultimately, our goal is to uncover the extraordinary mechanisms of the sleeping brain—an essential state for cognitive, emotional, and developmental processes—and to enhance sleep quality at critical periods of life.

Key publications

See the complete list of the publications