As a student in the exercise physiology master’s program, you’ll get to work closely with expert faculty, gaining professional experience assisting with their research.

If you’re interested in applying for a position – or to schedule a visit – contact Dr. Paul Nagelkirk, Chair of the School of Kinesiology and Director of the Integrative Exercise Physiology Laboratory.

Current Graduate Assistants   

Matt Deemer

Matthew is a first-year student in the Exercise Science MS, with a concentration in Exercise Physiology. He graduated from Slippery Rock University in the Spring of 2026 with  a B.S. in Exercise Science. His interest in exercise physiology stemmed from his work on exercise-induced inter-arm blood pressure differences and the autonomic response to exercise. He served as a  Peer Mentor for Biomechanics and Resistance Training courses, guiding students through lab activities. Outside the classroom, Matthew has competed in Powerlifting and Bodybuilding, and served as President of SRU's Bodybuilding and Fitness Club for two years. He is now working in the Integrative Exercise Physiology Lab, assisting with research on how popular recovery modalities influence the inflammatory response to resistance. In his free time, Matthew enjoys resistance training and is an avid kayaker.

Recent Graduates

Curtis Cornell
Baseball Strength Coach 
Cornerstone University

Sandra Fredericks
Ph.D. Student
University of Georgia

Ian Holder
Scientific Officer
OxiWear

Sydney DeJonge, MS
Ph.D. student
University of Illinois at Chicago

Kayla Rupar, MS
Clinical Research Coordinator
University of Michigan

Carley Shannon, MS
Head Coach - Field Hockey
Hood College

Zachary Martin, PhD
Post Doctoral Fellow
Emory University
Rollins School of Public Health

James Sackett, PhD
Assistant Professor
Cornerstone University

Jake Kimmell, MS
Exercise Physiologist
Community Health Network

Leryn Reynolds, PhD
Assistant Professor in Human Movement Sciences
Old Dominion University

Rebecca Scalzo, PhD
Assistant Professor
Medicine - Endocrinology/Metabolism/Diabetes
University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus