Research interests

Professor Joerg Steier has significantly contributed to research in sleep medicine and respiratory physiology, with a particular focus on sleep-disordered breathing and novel sleep apnoea treatments. His leadership in the field is evidenced by his roles as President of the British Sleep Society, where he now serves as immediate Past President, as well as his involvement with prominent organisations like the British Thoracic Society (Science & Research Committee) and the European Respiratory Society (Chair Group: Clinical and Epidemiological Sleep-Disordered Breathing).

His current research interest is based on the Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation in Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (TESLA) programme, which investigates innovative therapeutic approaches for sleep apnoea. He actively leads several clinical trials focused on respiratory symptoms, sleep-disordered breathing and physiological outcome markers.

Professor Steier's academic influence extends through editorial roles, collaborations (ERS, BSS, BTS, WSS), and public involvement to advance sleep health. His contributions to medical literature include textbooks on lung function, critical care, and physiotherapy, along with authoring multiple book chapters in respiratory, sleep, and critical care medicine. He provides expert input to patient advocacy organisations like Hope2Sleep, the European Lung Foundation, and the British Lung Foundation, bridging the gap between research and patient care.

Biographical details

Professor Joerg Steier follows a professional career in respiratory and sleep medicine. Following his studies at the University of Leipzig in Germany he has gained research and clinical experience across Europe, Asia and the United States. His specialist respiratory training at the Western German Lung Centre laid the foundation for his future expertise.

A professional move to London on a prestigious European Respiratory Society fellowship led to his PhD at King's College London, focusing on sleep-disordered breathing and respiratory muscle physiology. His research has led to significant publications and impact cases, including the development of a medical product and the establishment of a spinout company.

Currently, Professor Steier serves as Consultant at the Lane Fox Respiratory Unit at Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, specialising in ventilation and weaning. He also works at the Sleep Disorders Centre and holds the Chair for Respiratory and Sleep Medicine at King's College London. His leadership in the field was recognised through his roles for the British Thoracic Society (BTS, Science & Research Committee), he is immediate Past President of the British Sleep Society (BSS), and current Chair of the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Group for Clinical and Epidemiological Sleep Disorders.

Expertise related to UN Sustainable Development Goals

In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person’s work contributes towards the following SDG(s):

• SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
• SDG 4 - Quality Education
• SDG 10 - Reduced Inequalities
• SDG 16 - Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
• SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals