Rachel Drew
Area of Expertise
Neurovascular Exercise Physiology, Integrative Physiology, Nervous System Control of Cardiovascular System, Neurovascular Responses to Exercise in Adult Populations Differing by Age and Racial Identity and those with Cardiovascular Related Diseases
Degrees
PhD, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
BSc, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
Professional Publications & Contributions
Additional Information
The focus of Dr. Drew’s lab-based research program is to investigate the nervous system control of the cardiovascular system during exercise in different adult populations. Her neurovascular exercise physiology research involves examination of the control of blood pressure, heart rate and blood flow to the kidneys during exercise in adult populations differing by age and racial identity and those with cardiovascular-related diseases. Her research team uses state-of-the-art, non-invasive measurement techniques such as Doppler ultrasound for kidney blood flow assessment, photoplethysmography for beat-to-beat blood pressure determination, and electrocardiography for beat-to-beat heart rate quantification, and analysis technique to evaluate spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity and heart rate variability during exercise in populations with differing levels of cardiovascular risk.
Teaching Expertise
- Exercise Physiology
- Advanced Health
- Fitness and Nutrition Assessment
- Research Methods
Awards and Accomplishments
Junior Faculty Excellence in Basic Science Research Award, Department of Medicine, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and College of Medicine
Postdoctoral and Early Career Research Recognition Award, Neural Control and Autonomic Regulation section, American Physiological Society
Gabor Kaley Professional Opportunity Award, American Physiological Society
Professional Memberships/Affiliations
- Member, American Physiological Society
- Member, American College of Sports Medicine
- Member, American Heart Association
- Member, Physiological Society (UK)