Light and Health Research Center - Icahn School of Medicine Mount Sinai

The Mount Sinai Light and Health Research Center (LHRC) was created in 2021 to apply the science of light to improve health outcomes.

Among the many projects underway, LHRC is looking at how robust patterns of light and dark improve sleep for people from many walks of life, from submariners to premature infants to senior citizens and, indeed, for all who work in offices, schools, and factories. LHRC is developing lighting schemes to improve the lives of those living with conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and depression, and those who are undergoing cancer treatment or recovering from traumatic brain injury. LHRC is also exploring the science and application of ultraviolet light to improve vitamin D production in populations who do not get enough sunlight, to control agricultural plant pathogens, and to serve as a germicidal disinfection strategy in the built environment. They are also developing new lighting technologies for safer transportation, from less glaring and more effective lighting for emergency vehicles to airport ground lighting that is better visible to pilots.

LHRC is compelled to focus on lighting applications that are both effective and sustainable. This means developing new metrics for characterising and quantifying light for a healthy planet, as well as developing design guidelines to assist those who are charged with implementing this research in real spaces.

Role of the institution within ENLIGHTENme

LHRC reviews existing literature on light-health impact reduction, data collection strategies and satellite imagery. We also assist with lighting plan development, experimental design for health assessment, and we participate in developing design assistance and guidelines for smart outdoor lighting. Furthermore, LHRC disseminates to lighting manufacturers, at conferences, and assists in the development of scholarly publications.