Cardiovascular and Applied Physiology Laboratory Director
Link to Joe’s Profile
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We value ambition, curiosity, diligence, integrity, and teamwork.
“The whole purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows.”
CURRENT LAB MEMBERS
Ella Ashley
2024-present
Undergraduate Volunteer (UROP 2024-2025), Exercise Physiology
I am from Mandeville, Louisiana, and my summer experience working in a hospital ignited my passion for cardiovascular health. The CAP lab offers a hands-on opportunity that aligns perfectly with my aspiration to become a physician. Additionally, I serve on the executive board of FSU Swim Club and volunteer to teach swimming to children with special needs, which has further deepened my commitment to promoting health and wellness in my community.
Tom Bissen, MS
2023-present
Ph.D. Candidate, 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.
Christin Domeier, MSc
2023-present
Ph.D. Candidate, 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.
Jonathan Hoch, BS
2024-present
Ph.D. Student, Exercise Physiology
My passion lies in crafting personalized coaching strategies to enhance movement, improve lifestyle habits, and foster a good mindset. This passion has led me through and around the latest research, so it's only fitting that I am now searching for answers to my own questions, with a team that values clinical research that won't just improve the industry but also people's lives. My research interests include cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and orthopedic health across the lifespan.
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Ann Parry
2025-present
UROP Student, Athletic Training
UROP Mentor: Joe Vondrasek
I am from Safety Harbor, Florida and my passion for health and wellness grew from the desire to help others. The CAP lab’s hands-on approach perfectly aligns with my goal of becoming a pediatric Physician Assistant. Through my involvement in the Pre-PA Society and Holistic Health club I continue to strengthen my commitment to promoting well-being on campus.
Joe Vondrasek, MS, CSCS
2023-present
Ph.D. Candidate, Exercise Physiology
My current research interests include heart rate variability & heart rate variability biofeedback and the acute & chronic cardiovascular adaptations to resistance training.
Sophia Vizoso, BS
2024-present
Completed Thesis, Major: Cell and Molecular Neuroscience & Public Health (Dual-degree)
I enjoy learning about the different biological processes in the body and how genetic factors, exercise, and diet influence health. I am excited to be a part of the CAP Lab exploring these connections and how they shape our understanding of overall well-being. I hope the experience I gain in the lab will help me in my journey to becoming a doctor, giving me a deeper understanding of the cardiovascular system and the body.
Evan Whyte, BSN, RN
2025-present
Clinical Research Nurse
I bring eight years of experience as a RN in intensive care and clinical education. I am currently pursuing a PhD in Nursing at UCF. Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with family and practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
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Not (yet) pictured: Andrew Lan, Natalie Zamora, and Andrew Zhang
FORMER LAB MEMBERS
Sequoia Ernst, BS
2024-2026
Undergraduate Intern, Exercise Physiology
Current: MS student (Kinesiology), University of Wisconsin-Madison
I’m currently a junior and plan to pursue graduate school to continue doing research and to further my knowledge of vascular biology, metabolism, and exercise after I graduate.
Jason Bowden, BS
2023-2025
Undergraduate Assistant Exercise Physiology; Medical Student
I was born and raised here in Tallahassee, attended FSU for my undergraduate degree in Exercise Physiology, and am now a medical student here at Florida State. After medical school, my goal is to become a general surgeon specializing in trauma and surgical critical care. However, in the meantime, I am excited to help drive research that improves understanding of cardiovascular health.
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.
Mary Peck, BS
2023-2026
Undergraduate Intern, 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.
Allison Bowerfind, BS
2022-2023 UROP Student
Undergraduate Student, Behavioral Neuroscience & Sociology (Dual-degree)
Current: MS Student (Physician Assistant), Lincoln Memorial University-Tampa
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.
Allyson May, BSN, RN
2022-2023 UROP Student
Undergraduate Student, Public Health
Current: Nurse, Tampa, FL
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!
Alexander Rivera, BS
2023-2026
Undergraduate Intern, 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.
Jens Cuba, BS
2022-2023 UROP Student
Undergraduate Student, Biochemistry
Current: Research Specialist, Emory University
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.
Lily Voelkel
2024-2025
Undergraduate Volunteer (UROP 2024-2025), IMS Clinical Professions
I grew up in Covington, LA, and am passionate about pursuing a medical career as a cardiovascular surgeon, driven by my interest in understanding heart health. Research in the CAP Lab provides well-rounded experience with the cardiovascular system and its functions. I am also involved in the Healthy Celebrations Club and work as a caretaker for the Agency for Persons with Disabilities.
Katie Kirk, MS
2022-2023
M.S. Student, Exercise Physiology
Current: DPT Student, University of North Florida
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.
Pannonica Silvestri, BS
2023-2025
Undergraduate Intern, Exercise Physiology
Current: MS student (Anesthesiology Assistant), Case Western Reserve University
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.
Jessica Cassette, BFA
2022-2025 (UROP 2022-2023)
Undergraduate Student, Dance
Current: MS student (Motor Learning & Control), Columbia University
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.
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.
