Dr. Fu’s research uses human genetics combined with multiple model organisms to investigate molecular mechanisms of human circadian rhythm and sleep behaviors. Over the last 15 years, she and her colleagues identifiedseveral mutations that lead to extreme morning lark phenotype. In addition, they are investigating the genetic basis for human subjects to have shorter sleep duration. Since circadian rhythm and sleep homeostasis are intimately connected with many physiological pathways including metabolism, immune function, and mood regulation, to name but a few, these studies will also shed new light on how sleep schedule and sleep homeostasis can impact on health.