Actually I'm not sure if you'll be able to have a normal life style with that type of work schedule. That type of schedule is approaching upon me rather quickly also. The only possible way, that I see, that you can keep your body from quitting on you is sleeping during the day. I know it's pretty unfortunate. I'm a night person myself, but it will vary from person to person.

However, since our natural sleep cycle is during the evening hours I see it being very difficult to sleep for 3-4 hours during the middle of the night, then waking up again in the early morning. You are preventing your body from fully recuperating by dividing up your sleep schedule.

It might be better for you to get your full 6-8 hours during the morning after you get back. You will be more rested and more alert then being a mindless zombie.