Cardiovascular and Applied Physiology Laboratory Director
Link to Joe’s Profile
CURRENT LAB MEMBERS
Ella Ashley
2024-2025 UROP Student
Undergraduate Student, 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. 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.
Jason Bowden, BS
2023-present
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.
Jessica Cassette
2022-present (UROP 2022-2023)
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.
Sequoia Ernst
2024-present
Undergraduate Student, Exercise Physiology
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.
Jonathan Hoch, BS
2024-present
Laboratory Assistant/Masters 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.
Mary Peck
2023-present
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.
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.
Pannonica Silvestri
2023-present
Undergraduate Intern, 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.
Lily Voelkel
2024-2025 UROP Student
Undergraduate Student, 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.
Sophia Vizoso
2024-present
Undergraduate Student, 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.
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.
Not (yet) pictured:
Casey Della Rocco, Undergraduate Student
Katelyn Miller, Medical Student
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.
Allison Bowerfind
2022-2023
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.
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
2022-2023
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!
