Background
BS, Exercise Science, Brigham Young University (2003-2006)
MS, Coaching Performance, University of Utah (2007-20010)
PhD, Exercise Physiology, Brigham Young University (2014-2018)
Post-Doctoral Associate, University of Minnesota, Kinesiology (2018-2022)
Post-Doctoral Fellow, University of Minnesota, School of Medicine, Cardiology (2022-2023)
Assistant Professor, Brigham Young University, Exercise Sciences (2023-Current)
Cancer Research
My expertise is in skeletal muscle physiology, particularly in understanding how injury, aging, disuse, and disease affect muscle and overall health. A central focus of my research is investigating the pathophysiology of traumatic muscle injuries, specifically volumetric muscle loss (VML). VML occurs when a significant portion of muscle tissue is irreparably lost due to trauma or invasive surgery, leading to a loss of both muscle structure and function. This issue is highly relevant in cancer treatment, where surgeries such as tumor resections can result in substantial muscle loss.
While skeletal muscle typically has strong regenerative abilities, its capacity to heal is severely diminished when large volumes of tissue are removed, as in VML. This poses a significant challenge for cancer patients, where muscle loss, compounded by chemotherapy and radiation, can lead to diminished mobility, strength, and overall quality of life. My research aims to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms that prevent healing after VML and to develop therapies that restore form and function to the injured tissue. By exploring innovative treatments—such as muscle transplants, stem cell therapies, small molecule interventions, and targeted rehabilitation strategies, I aim to promote muscle regeneration and improve recovery.
The goal of our lab is to create therapies that can be integrated into cancer surgery protocols to mitigate the adverse effects of VML, enhance muscle health, and accelerate healing. By addressing the specific challenges posed by surgical interventions, my work seeks to improve both short- and long-term outcomes for cancer patients, helping them regain function and avoid long-term disability.