Integrative Aerospace and Exercise Physiology Lab

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The Integrative Aerospace and Exercise Physiology Lab (IAEP) aims to broaden knowledge of human fatigue during strenuous activities, specifically exercise. The research in this lab investigates how extreme environments — such as temperature extremes (heat and cold), situations of high mental stress, exposure to high gravitational forces (g-forces) and extended exercise periods — affect the functioning of cardiopulmonary and muscular systems, as well as exercise tolerance.

The lab’s chief objectives are to identify the limitations of the cardiopulmonary (the heart and lungs) and muscular systems under these harsh environmental conditions, and to devise innovative solutions that could enhance performance under such circumstances.

In this lab, students actively engage in all stages of the research process, from project conception and design, through data collection and analysis, to the drafting and submission of publications. Participation equips students with vital skills such as phlebotomy (blood collection) and metabolic testing, preparing them for impactful contributions in the fields of medicine and aviation after they graduate.

Leveraging the geographic advantage of being situated near the Daytona International Speedway, our lab offers a unique opportunity to examine the effect of factors such as heat exposure, high g-forces and mental stress on the health and performance of professional race car drivers.

The lab also fosters collaboration with physiology and medical programs at reputable institutions like The University of Colorado, Kansas State University and the University of Hawaii. Current research focuses on enhancing metabolic control and exercise tolerance in patients diagnosed with diseases like sickle cell anemia and type 2 diabetes. This work has been supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Department of Defense.