Dr. Fred Turek

Professor

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Biography

Fred Turek is the Director of the Center for Sleep and Circadian Biology and holds the Charles E. Emma H. Morrison Professorship in Biology at Northwestern University. His research focuses on the mechanisms regulating sleep and circadian rhythms, including the role of genes and other biological factors in sleep-wake cycles. His lab investigates the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the central clock of the brain, and its impact on circadian timing. Dr. Turek also collaborates with clinical researchers to study how circadian disruptions affect the health of humans, particularly older adults and shift workers. He is exploring strategies to restore circadian timing and mitigate associated physical and mental health issues, with a focus on obesity, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, and gastrointestinal disorders. Throughout his career, Dr. Turek has received numerous awards for his contributions to the field, including the Distinguished Scientist Award from the Sleep Research Society and the Pioneer Award from the Institute for Women's Health Research at Northwestern University. He has held significant leadership roles, including founding president of the Society for Research on Biological Rhythms and serving as Deputy Editor for the journal Sleep.

Research Interests

Experience

Director

— Present

Center for Sleep and Circadian Biology • Evanston, IL

Leading research and educational efforts related to sleep and circadian biology.

Professor

— Present

Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences • Evanston, IL

Teaching and conducting research in biology and neurology.

Awards

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Gregory Belenky Distinguished Lectureship Award

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Distinguished Scientist Award

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Distinguished Service Award

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Distinguished Service Award

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Pioneer Award

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Distinguished Senior Investigator Award

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Endowed Chair

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Senior International Fellowship

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Guggenheim Fellowship

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Senior Fellowship

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Curt P. Richter Prize

Requirements for Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Science, or Mathematics Calculus (single and multi-variable) Linear Algebra Differential Equations Statistics (Linear Regression, Hypothesis Testing) Vector Calculus
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Resume or CV
  • Academic Statement
  • Personal Statement
  • Application fee
Specialization Notes

Administered by The Graduate School; focuses on Biomechanics, Imaging, Biomaterials, and Regenerative Medicine.