Exercise Physiology
The Graduate Program in Exercise Physiology offers interdisciplinary biomedical research training leading to the Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D., and M.S. degrees.
Exercise Physiology is housed within the School of Medicine, providing a well-rounded and rigorous academic environment with a high degree of collaboration between clinical and basic science researchers. The program fosters the growth of research training opportunities related to both biomedical sciences and clinical medicine. We are proud of the fact that in 2007, the faculty in our Ph.D. program in Exercise Physiology were ranked 7th Nationally by the Chronicles of Higher Education. This ranking is based upon research publications, research citations and federal funding for our graduate faculty. (Click to view the article) If you would like to study Exercise Physiology at a top 10 program, then Exercise Physiology at West Virginia University School of Medicine is the place for you!
Current research areas include:
- Cardiovascular function in health and disease
- Circulatory adaptation to exercise training, microgravity, aging, hypertension and diabetes
- Muscle adaptation and injury
- Diabetes and endocrinology
- Genetic basis for muscle strength and aging
- Tissue engineering
Our Ph.D. training program offers students basic medical and scientific education as well as preparation for a career as a researcher and teacher. Our rigorous training develops the attitudes, habits, and skills that are the signature characteristics of competitive, independent scientists. You will have the opportunity, if you wish, to actively engage in patient care, including rehabilitation, disease prevention, and risk factor management with an emphasis on cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes.
You are expected to:
- Take an array of courses in exercise physiology, physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, pharmacology, and neuroscience
- Conduct independent research, analyze and interpret the data, and defend the findings and conclusions
- Learn the process of writing and submitting grants
- Present and discuss your research findings at national and international scientific meetings
- Develop and improve teaching skills
- Submit your dissertation research for publication prior to graduation