S. Justin Thomas, Ph.D., DBSM, FSBSM, assistant professor in the department of Psychiatry, has been elected as the 2024 President of the Society of Behavioral Sleep Medicine (SBSM). His extensive qualifications include being board-certified in behavioral sleep medicine (DBSM) and holding the position of Director of the UAB Behavioral Sleep Medicine Clinic and Training Program.

Additionally, he serves as the Co-Director of the UAB Sleep and Circadian Research Core. Notably, he will be promoted to the position of Associate Professor as of October 1, 2023.

This appointment as President-Elect reflects Thomas's dedication to the field of behavioral sleep medicine (BSM).

The SBSM is a dynamic and diverse international organization, bringing together professionals from various disciplines and settings, including academic medicine, private practice, the VA Healthcare System, and industry.

The organization has been actively engaged in advocacy efforts, public education, clinical guideline development, accreditation of BSM clinical training programs, support for trainee growth, and research.

Collaborating with the Board of Behavioral Sleep Medicine, the SBSM plays a pivotal role in the credentialing examination for Diplomate in Behavioral Sleep Medicine (DBSM).

Thomas has been deeply involved in the SBSM's activities, having served as the Co-Chair of the 2019 Scientific Conference, Chair of the Clinical Practice Committee, and an At-Large Board of Directors member.

His recent selection as a Fellow of the SBSM (FSBSM) further underscores his commitment to the field.

“I am deeply honored to have been elected to contribute to the strategic direction of the SBSM in the coming years,” said Thomas.

His official tenure as President-Elect will commence at the 2023 Scientific Conference, scheduled to be held in San Diego from November 2 - 5, 2023.

He has outlined his ambitious goals for his upcoming term, which include growing membership, particularly among students and trainees, producing clinical and research guidelines relevant to BSM, and contributing to the emerging field of circadian medicine.