By Francis Von Mann 

LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 22, 2026) — University of Kentucky faculty members Julie Pendergast, Ph.D., and Michael Tackenberg, Ph.D., will join an international panel of researchers for an "Ask Me Anything" forum hosted on Reddit for World Circadian Day on June 24. 

World Circadian Day aims to raise public awareness about circadian health — the internal biological clocks that regulate sleep, metabolism and other essential functions. Common questions from the public tend to center on how to sleep better, the health effects of meal timing and the risks associated with shift work. The event is sponsored by the Society for Research on Biological Rhythms and partner organizations. 

“Living in sync with our circadian rhythms is important for health and well-being,” said Pendergast, associate professor of biology. “I am excited to participate in this worldwide event to share what we have learned about circadian science and the lifestyle changes we can make to improve well-being.” 

Pendergast's research examines how disruptions to circadian rhythms and sleep affect health outcomes including cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders and cognitive function. She also leads Circadian and Sleep Health for a Healthy Kentucky, an initiative working to establish UK as a nationally recognized center for circadian and sleep research. 

“Circadian rhythms have an impact on so many aspects of life on our planet, from human health to wildlife biology. I’m looking forward to answering questions on such an important topic and, hopefully, igniting curiosity about biological rhythms,” said Tackenberg, assistant professor of biology. 

Tackenberg's research investigates the internal mechanics of the body's biological clock — specifically how circadian rhythms are generated, maintained and communicated between cells and tissues in mammals and honeybees. 

Pendergast and Tackenberg join panelists from institutions across the country, including Joanna Chiu, society president and professor and chair of the UC Davis Department of Entomology and Nematology; Emily Manoogian, clinical researcher at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies; Erik Herzog, professor at Washington University in St. Louis; and Horacio de la Iglesia, professor at the University of Washington. 

Founded in 1986, the international society advances research in all aspects of biological rhythms. 

The public is invited to submit questions and join the conversation from noon to 2 p.m. ET on June 24 at reddit.com/r/science.