R. Robert Auger, M.D.

Location

SUMMARY

The research of R R. Auger, M.D., encompasses a wide range of sleep disorders. He has a particular interest in circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders. Through innovative research and collaboration, he aims to improve clinical practices. Dr. Auger's work includes clinical trials, collaborative studies and guidelines to improve patient outcomes. He strives to advance the field of sleep medicine by exploring effective treatments and interventions for sleep disorders.

Focus areas

• Circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders. Dr. Auger studies treatment interventions for circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders, such as delayed sleep-wake phase disorder. His work includes developing clinical practice guidelines and treatment strategies, with an emphasis on improving the quality of life for patients with these conditions.
• Amber glasses study. Dr. Auger conducted the Glasses for Adolescent Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder (GLAD) study to determine the effectiveness of amber glasses in improving sleep and circadian parameters among adolescents with delayed sleep-wake phase disorder. This research sought to reduce evening light exposure. Data analyses are ongoing.
• Sleep disorders. Dr. Auger works with experts across Mayo Clinic to enhance the understanding and treatment of sleep disorders. His collaborations include studies on interventions and outcomes for various patient groups, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to research and treatment development.

Significance to patient care

Dr. Auger studies ways to treat sleep disorders. By making treatment plans that fit each person, his goal is to help people sleep better and feel better in their daily lives.

Professional highlights

• American Academy of Sleep Medicine:
  • Chair, ICSD-3 Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorders Work Group, 2020.
  • Member, Narcolepsy and Hypersomnia Guideline Task Force, 2017-2020.
  • Chair, Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorders Practice Parameters Update Task Force, 2008-2015.
  • Member, Circadian Rhythm Section Steering Committee, 2008-2015.
  • Chair, Circadian Rhythm Section, 2012-2014.
• Mayo Clinic:
  • Recipient, Mayo Department of Psychiatry and Psychology Small Grant Award, Examining the Frequency of Substance Misuse Among Patients With Primary Disorders of Hypersomnolence: A Retrospective Case-Control Study, 2009-2011.
  • Recipient, Mayo CR20 Funding, Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder and Association With Evening Light Exposure: A Pilot Study, 2007-2009.
• Selected participant, American Academy of Sleep Medicine Young Investigator Research Forum, National Institutes of Health, 2011.