LAB DIRECTOR
Joe Watso, PhD
We’re always in search of team members with diligence, ambition, curiosity, and integrity. Email Joe if you are interested in supporting the lab mission with us.
CURRENT LAB MEMBERS
Tom Bissen, MS
2023-present
Ph.D. Student, Exercise Physiology
Research interests include cardiovascular disease prevention & rehabilitation. Recent work includes high intensity interval training to improve exercise capacity during cardiac rehabilitation in patients with heart failure.
Allison Bowerfind
2022-present
Undergraduate Student, Behavioral Neuroscience & Sociology (Dual-degree)
I am from Spring Hill, FL and would like to become a psychiatrist or cardiologist. I am currently a mentor for students who have their high school AA degrees and a member of the sorority, Pi Beta Phi. In my free time, I love to spend time outside, doing things like walking my dog, running, or spending time with family and friends.
Jason Bowden
2023-present
Undergraduate Student, Exercise Physiology
I was born and raised here in Tallahassee. I am a senior studying Exercise Physiology and hope to attend medical school in the next year.
Jessica Cassette
2022-present
Undergraduate Student, Dance
Growing up in Jacksonville, FL, I attended an arts magnet program for both middle and high school that ignited my passion for the arts and sciences. As an artist and scientist, I aim to investigate how the integration of these two fields can provide fresh insights into the world we inhabit. I hope to obtain a DPT specializing in treating professional athletes. Also, I aspire to conduct clinical research that can aid in the development of innovative injury prevention & recovery techniques.
Christin Domeier, MSc
2023-present
Ph.D. Student, Exercise Physiology
I’m from Germany where I studied Physiotherapy (B.Sc.) and Healthcare Sciences (M.Sc.). I am interested in theoretical aspects of human physiology and therapeutic approaches to acute and chronic pain, and cardiovascular problems.
Pannonica Silvestri
2023-present
Undergraduate Student, Exercise Physiology
I first became interested in physiology, especially the heart and lungs, while shadowing the Anesthesiologist Assistants at University Hospitals. The CAP lab presents an exciting hands-on opportunity to learn more about these systems. At FSU, I am also involved in Hearts for the Homeless and the Seminole Striders running club.
Joe Vondrasek, MS, CSCS
2023-present
Ph.D. Student, Exercise Physiology
My current research interests include heart rate variability & heart rate variability biofeedback and the acute & chronic cardiovascular adaptations to resistance training.
Mary Peck
2023-present
Undergraduate Student, Exercise Physiology
I grew up in Ormond Beach, Florida. After competing as a runner in high school, I developed interests in preventing overuse injuries from exercise and broadly human physiology. Following my undergraduate education, I hope to attend medical school.
Alexander Rivera
2023-present
Undergraduate Student, Exercise Physiology
I am from Orlando, FL. I have always been intrigued by the cardiovascular system and its importance to health. Outside of academics, I am a film director and writer. I also enjoy working out and spending time with friends.
FORMER LAB MEMBERS
Savannah Boutwell
2022-2023 UROP Student
Undergraduate Student, STEM Entrepreneurship
I am a Florida native from Ocala. I chose to major in STEM Entrepreneurship because it combines my two passions: business and medicine. I hope to return to my hometown and work as a physician and own my practice. My research interests include improving our understanding of nutrition and exercise in order to maintain optimal cardiovascular health. I like to spend my free time playing pickle ball, spending time with friends and family, and being outside.
Jens Cuba
2022-2023 UROP Student
Undergraduate Student, Biochemistry
I am a first-generation student from Miami, FL, aspiring to join an MD-PhD program. My curiosity about biochemistry arose diagnosis of a chronic auto-immune disease. This led me to explore and appreciate human physiology. Research has given me the opportunity to understand more about my condition and help others do the same. I've always enjoyed challenges that push me beyond surface-level thinking, and clinical research has given me the opportunity to do just that.
Isabela Fernandez
2022-2023 UROP Student
Undergraduate Student, Clinical Professions - Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences
I'm from Miami, FL interested in exercise physiology, clinical studies, psychology, and cardiovascular physiology. I also volunteer at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital in the Bixler Emergency Center.
Katie Kirk, BS
2022-present
M.S. Student, Exercise Physiology
I am from Scottsdale, Arizona and chose to come to Florida State University to pursue my interest in exercise physiology. I will be applying to DPT programs in the Fall of 2023 with the goal of becoming a physical therapist for a professional sports team.
Allyson May
2022-2023 UROP Student
Undergraduate Student, Public Health
I am from Palm Harbor, FL interested in joining FSU’s Nursing Program in Fall 2023. I enjoy working out, hanging with my friends, and taking some time for myself!
