Research

The Exercise Science Research Center features projects of the Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation.

Cachexia Research Laboratory

The Cachexia Research Laboratory studies the onset of cancer-induced muscle wasting with a focus on muscle metabolic processes involved in this condition. Our research objective is to identify instigating mechanisms of cancer cachexia in effort to identify efficacious therapeutic targets to prevent and reverse this condition. — Nicholas Greene, Ph.D.

Visit the Cachexia Research Laboratory

Exercise Is Medicine

The Exercise Is Medicine research group is engaged in the promotion and measurement of physical activity among children, particularly the educational effects of physical activity — Erin Howie Hickey, Ph.D.

Visit Exercise Is Medicine

Exercise Muscle Biology Laboratory

Employs molecular biology techniques to examine skeletal muscle plasticity and cellular signaling involved during skeletal muscle growth, atrophy and regeneration.

Meet Tyrone Washington, Ph.D.

Heat Stress, Fluid Balance and Renal Physiology Lab

The Heat Stress, Fluid Balance and Renal Physiology Lab is currently researching: effect of various stressors on renal stress; fluid balance in females based on contraceptive use and hormone levels; exertional heat stress and dehydration; and treatment of exertional heat illness.

Meet Brendon McDermott, Ph.D.

Neuromechanics of Human Movement Laboratory

The Neuromechanics of Human Movement Laboratory — aka the MOVE lab — explores factors that contribute to gait and balance instability in people with orthopedic and neuromuscular disorders. We are trying to better understand how gait and postural control are altered by injury and disease with a focus on the interaction between musculoskeletal biomechanics and sensorimotor control in human movement.

Meet Abigail Schmitt, Ph.D.

Occupational Spinal Injuries

Influence of occupational work on spinal injuries, assess people's posture, sitting or standing, muscle activity, and movement.

Meet Kaitlin Gallagher, Ph.D.

Office of Sport Concussion Research

The Office of Sport Concussion Research is focused on examining the neurocognitive, physical and psychosocial effects of sport-related concussion; identifying factors that influence concussion risk and recovery; and documenting best practices for the clinical assessment, management, and treatment of this injury. — Robert Elbin, Ph.D.

Visit the Office of Sport Concussion Research

Office for Studies on Aging

The Office for Studies on Aging focuses on research to help older adults live independently longer — Michelle Gray, Ph.D.

Visit the Office for Studies on Aging

Thermoregulatory Responses

Effect of obesity on physiology; investigating the mechanisms by which cardiovascular and thermoregulatory responses may be altered in healthy and patient populations; hydration assessment techniques.

Meet Matthew Ganio, Ph.D.