Desi obtained his Master of Science from the University of Alberta in 2011 with a primary focus in Athlete Health and biomechanics. He is a registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist with the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology and has extensive health-related research experience including quality improvement, stakeholder collaboration and project management.

Since 2010, Desi has worked with Dr. Michael Stickland to create the Clinical Physiology Laboratory and has recently collaborated with Dr.’s Stickland, Thompson, and Pituskin to create the Precision Human Health Laboratory. See publications 

Andrew is a PhD student supervised by Dr. Michael Stickland. He received his Bachelor of Science: Kinesiology and Master of Science: Kinesiology degree at the University of Alberta. Andrew’s doctoral research focuses on cardiopulmonary physiology, specifically investigating pulmonary vascular function at rest and during exercise. When not pursuing his studies, Andrew enjoys hiking, camping, biking, and playing most sports. See publications

Kostiantyn Dmytriiev is a dedicated scholar currently pursuing his PhD in Medicine at the University of Alberta. His academic journey began at the National Pirogov Memorial Medical University, where he earned his MD in 2016. He furthered his expertise with multiple certifications in internal medicine, cardiology, and respirology between 2016 and 2021.

Dmytriiev's research interests are focused on respiratory and cardiovascular systems, with a particular emphasis on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchial asthma, and pulmonary hypertension. He contributed to understanding the genetic aspects of these conditions, particularly the impact of ADRB2 gene polymorphisms on COPD's clinical course. His work has been recognized with numerous awards.

His early research career was marked by roles as a study coordinator and sub-investigator at his alma mater, where he also served as a teaching assistant. Kostiantyn’s commitment to advancing medical science is evident in his extensive publication record. He has been an active participant in various international conferences.

In addition to his academic and research pursuits, Kostiantyn has contributed to the academic community through his multiple roles. His resilience and dedication to his field were exemplified when he continued his research despite the interruption of his PhD program at the National Pirogov Memorial Medical University due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Kostiantyn’s journey reflects a profound commitment to medical research and education, with a clear focus on improving clinical outcomes for patients with respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. See publications 

Andrew completed his Ph.D. in integrative physiology at Western University in London, Ontario in 2023. His doctoral work focused on how biological sex and sex hormones impact the sympathetic nervous system’s ability to regulate blood pressure and oxygen transport in humans. Andrew joined the Clinical Physiology Laboratory as an NSERC-funded postdoctoral research fellow in October 2023, under the supervision of Dr. Michael Stickland. His current research is focused on understanding the mechanisms by which the pulmonary circulation adjustments to physiologically relevant stressors (e.g., exercise, posture), and evaluating the cardiovascular and pulmonary vascular impacts of pharmacotherapies in health and disease. Additionally, he is involved in ongoing work with the G.F. MacDonald Centre for Lung Health which aims improve quality of life among patients with lung disease via exercise-based rehabilitation.  Outside of the laboratory, Andrew enjoys spending time in the mountains, playing sports, watching sports, and perusing Edmonton’s awesome restaurant scene. However, come hockey playoff season, you will only find Andrew outside of Roger’s Place - Go Oilers Go! See publications

Bronwen is a 3rd year undergraduate student at the University of Alberta completing a Bachelor of Kinesiology with a major in Physical Activity and Health. She has completed two summer research studentships with Dr. Stickland and is currently in the PHHL as a directed studies student. Additionally, she enjoys spending time in the mountains and hanging out with her chaotic puppy Pip.

Eli received his Master of Science degree at the University of Alberta under the supervision of Dr. Michael Stickland and Dr. Stephanie Thompson, briefly after his undergraduate study in Bachelor of Kinesiology. Eli is working as a supporting staff for the research at PHHL. See publications

Chuanyi is an undergraduate student at the University of Alberta pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. She completed her professional practicum placement at PHHL and is currently a directed studies student. Chuanyi plans to pursue a master’s degree under Dr. Stickland’s supervision in the fall of 2025. Outside the lab, she can be found at other labs, gaining additional experience and broadening her research skills. 

Desmond is a PhD student supervised by Dr. Michael Stickland. He completed his Master of Science degree at the University of Alberta in 2025 under the supervision of Dr. Craig Steinback. Desmond's master's work examined the repeatability of cardiovascular responses to breath-holds, bringing together his interests in cardio-respiratory physiology and statistical analysis. Outside of the laboratory, Desmond enjoys gardening and growing bonsai in the summer, curling in the winter, and running year-round. See publications

Mohammed is a Ph.D. student in Medicine at the University of Alberta, specializing in cardiopulmonary sciences. He completed his MSc in Cardiac Sciences at the University of Calgary in 2024, where his thesis focused on “Exploring Physiologic Markers for the Identification of Vasovagal Syncope.” Currently, under the supervision of Dr. Michael Stickland, he is a member of the Clinical Physiology Laboratory, where his doctoral research centers on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cardiopulmonary clinical trials.In addition to his Ph.D. studies, Mohammed is actively involved in vasovagal syncope research at the Libin Cardiovascular Institute in Calgary, contributing to advancements in this area of cardiovascular health. His academic journey is supported by the Saudi Arabian Cultural Bureau, enabling his engagement in high-impact research initiatives.Outside the laboratory, Mohammed enjoys playing and watching soccer, bringing his passion for teamwork and strategy to both his professional and personal pursuits.