William C. Dement

William C. Dement was a pioneering American sleep researcher who greatly advanced understanding of sleep and its disorders. He co-founded the Sleep Research Center at Stanford University and is credited with identifying and naming the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep stage, which is crucial for dreaming and memory. Dement's work emphasized the importance of sleep for overall health and highlighted issues like sleep deprivation and sleep disorders such as narcolepsy. His research has shaped modern sleep medicine, helping millions better understand their sleep patterns and the critical role sleep plays in well-being.