App State NCRC Human Performance Lab

Dr. David Nieman is a professor at Appalachian State Univerisity in the College of Arts and Sciences' Department of Biology and director of the Human Performance Lab at the North Carolina Research Campus (NCRC) in Kannapolis, N.C.

Nieman is a pioneer in the research area of exercise and nutrition immunology and helped establish that

1. regular moderate exercise lowers upper respiratory tract infection rates while improving immunosurveillance,
2. heavy exertion increases...

Lathan C. Arnett is a recent graduate of Appalachian State University, with a B.S in Exercise Science. Lathan began interning with Appalachian's Human Performance Lab in the spring of 2021. Following his internship, he was hired as a research technician. Lathan plans to work toward his goal of obtaining his M.S in PA studies. With this degree, his field of interest will be working alongside the military and their families to assist in providing adequate healthcare and education for our...

Matt Arnold is pursuing his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a concentration in Sports Medicine at Catawba College. He is currently a NCAA Division II Swimmer and Bluegrass Mountain Conference finalist. He has lead a research project regarding the identification of physiological factors during the Manchester United fitness test that was funded by the Catawba College Impact grant and North Carolina Independent College & University grant. Arnold was selected as an intern at...

Steven Beck is a recent graduate from Appalachian State University with a degree in Molecular Biology. Steven's research interests include protein analysis, genomics, and preventative medicine. His aspirations include pursuing a M.D. in Orthopedic Medicine or a M.S. in PA studies. After school, he attends to work for the Health Care System to help educate and treat patients in an Orthopedic focused environment.

Andy Simonson completed his Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical activity concentrating in Exercise Science and a Master of Science in Health, Physical Activity concentrating in Chronic Disease and Obesity at the University of Pittsburgh. Previously, he worked for the University of Pittsburgh as a research associate. Since 2013, his research work focused on scientifically developing an injury prevention and performance optimization program that is culturally specific and dynamically...

Joshua Williams is currently attaining his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Joshua started his internship with the App State Human Performance Lab at Kannapolis, N.C. in January 2020. His aspirations include pursuing a Doctorate of Physical Therapy or a Master's degree in Exercise Physiology. With a master's degree in Exercise Physiology, Williams  would pursue further research interests in the field of Exercise...

Danielle Sterner, CSCS is pursuing her Master of Science in Applied Physiology and Neuromechanics at University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is a West Chester University of Pennsylvania Alumni and received her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology with minors in Nutrition and Coaching in December of 2019. During her Bachelors, she captained the Track and Field team while competing as a heptathlete. Previously, She was a recipient of the 2020 National Strength and Conditioning...