CASES Fellow Spotlight: Dr Sarah Gilchrist

As part of our Fellows Spotlight Series, we introduce Dr Sarah Gilchrist FCASES

Using Sleep Science to Elevate Human Performance

For over two decades, Dr Sarah Gilchrist FCASES has been quietly and powerfully shaping some of the country’s highest-performing sporting environments. Based in the South of England and now working as a sleep health and performance consultant, she has supported Team GB athletes at multiple Olympic and Paralympic Games and carved out a unique space as a leading voice in sleep education in the health and wellness sphere.

Reflecting on her decision to apply for Fellowship in 2020, she says simply: “I was at a stage in my career where I thought it had become relevant and worth applying for.” 

The recognition felt meaningful, a milestone that validated years of contribution.

“My Fellowship gives me a sense of recognition from my industry for dedication and commitment to continuing not only my professional practice but that of others.”

For Sarah, Fellowship isn’t just a personal honour; it’s a responsibility. “It’s an opportunity to give back to an industry that has provided me with such a sense of accomplishment,” she explains. She believes CASES plays a vital role in shaping the next generation, “It offers early career practitioners a pathway… supporting them through mentorship, career examples, and a variety of fields of expertise.”

Championing Sleep, Performance, and Wellbeing

Originally a physiologist specialising in rowing, Sarah’s interest in sleep and athletic performance evolved into a career-defining expertise. Today, she works independently, translating cutting-edge research into practical, real-world strategies for athletes, performers, and high-pressure corporate environments. Her recently published book, The Essential Guide to Women’s Sleep: Supporting Healthy Sleep Practices for Wellbeing and Performance, reflects her drive to bridge evidence with lived experience and make sleep knowledge accessible to all.

Her greatest career moments are woven through her journey. Sarah says, “Supporting Team GB athletes over multiple Olympic and Paralympic Games as a physiologist” remains a highlight that shaped her professionally and personally.

On Challenges, Mentorship, and Staying True to Your Values

Sarah is honest about the challenges of elite sport environments, particularly difficult personalities and team dynamics. “I ensured I had good people around me… people I had mutual respect with,” she says, emphasising the importance of support systems.

Her advice for early career practitioners is grounded and compassionate. She says, “Stay true to your own values. Keep up to date with research. Listen to coaches and athletes. And look after your own health and wellbeing, the hours can be long with lots of travel.”

Away From Work

Sarah is happiest outdoors or “running around with my family’s various adventures.” She enjoys book club, trying new sports, and continues to fuel her curiosity through writing. Her dream dinner guests, including Victoria Wood, Bob Mortimer, and Claudia Winkleman, hint at her appreciation for humour, creativity, and strong female role models.

A Lasting Impact

In everything she does, Sarah brings a blend of scientific rigour, human insight, and unwavering integrity. Her Fellowship stands as testament to a career spent elevating others. And as sleep science continues to grow, her influence will undoubtedly grow with it, inspiring future practitioners to follow a path grounded in expertise, empathy, and personal values.