Research

The Effects of Training Intensity on Female DIII Soccer Players

Researcher: Maddie Safar

Starting August 2026!

This study examines the relationship between intended and experienced training intensity, physical and mental fatigue, and injury rates within the Brandeis Women's Soccer Team. The findings will provide coaching staff with actionable insights, specifically regarding average player metrics and the alignment between coach-intended intensity and athlete-reported exertion. Concurrently, players will gain a deeper understanding of how their perceived training intensity, effort, and fatigue fluctuate and influence physiological markers including resting heart rate, heart rate variability, recovery, and  VO₂max throughout the season. Ultimately, this project aims to establish a foundational framework for monitoring athlete health across Brandeis athletic programs.

The Effects of Training and Injury on Student-Athlete Mental Health

Researcher: Josh Arany

Starting Winter 2026-2027!

The overarching goal of this research is to better understand how student-athlete mental health fluctuates throughout the athletic season and how injuries may impact these changes. By identifying patterns in stress, mood, and overall well-being, this study aims to highlight critical periods when student-athletes may be most vulnerable. The expected benefits include better targeted mental health support, informing coaches and athletic staff about when interventions may be most needed, and ultimately promoting healthier athletic environments that support both performance and overall well-being. Pending IRB approval, this study is scheduled to begin enrolling Brandeis student-athletes on all teams in time for the winter 2026-2027 season.

The Relationship Between Collegiate Dance Participation and Mental Health

Researchers: Destiny Kluck, Josh Arany, Maddie Safar, Elle Yung

Manuscript under preparation

PERT for Students in School Study

Researcher: Shivangi Das Gupta

Starting Fall 2026!

This research study examines how the physiology of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), a condition in which the pancreas does not produce sufficient digestive enzymes, should inform Massachusetts school health policy. As written, MA law M.G.L. c.71 §54B specifically guarantees students with Cystic Fibrosis the right to self-administer pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) at school. Students with other EPI diagnoses, such as Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome, are not afforded the same protection despite identical clinical need. Using a mixed-methods design integrating stakeholder interviews and survey data, this research investigates whether Massachusetts school health policy should be expanded to guarantee self-administration rights for all students with EPI, regardless of underlying diagnosis.