Max Wilson, an undergraduate health sciences major at the College of Allied Health Sciences, has been working in the Human Performance Lab for three years, according to a May 14 statement. Initially on a pre-physician assistant track and focused on patient care, Wilson’s curiosity about patients’ experiences led him to seek research opportunities early in his college career.
Wilson said he learned about research from other students and found that observing how the human body performs under different conditions matched his interests. After consulting with biology professor Brian Kinkle, PhD, Wilson connected with several labs before joining Mike Riley, PhD, in the Human Performance Lab. The lab focuses on biomechanics and how forces act within biological systems as well as real-world health challenges related to respiration.
In his work at the lab, Wilson has concentrated on postural–respiratory synergy in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This area examines how body position and breathing function together—a coordination that can be disrupted in individuals with COPD. He used tools such as Visual3D software for analyzing posture-breathing interactions and Qualisys motion capture systems to track movement precisely. Additional equipment included force plates for measuring balance and BioPac systems for tracking breathing amplitude.
Wilson’s recent project investigating “the influence of shoes and arch height flexibility on biomechanical variables during running” was recognized among the top 20 entries at the CAHS Scholarly Showcase. Through these experiences, he said he realized that recruiting participants, analyzing data, and applying findings can have real effects on patient care.
Reflecting on his journey bridging research with clinical aspirations, Wilson said: “I’m part of research that makes people’s lives better. It motivates me to continue this once I am a medical professional.”
The broader implication is that student engagement in laboratory research can enhance understanding of patient needs while contributing valuable insights into medical science.