Our Team

Jacob Gallagher, PhD

Director, Health Intervention Research Team

Assistant Professor, Kinesiology Department

Iowa State University

Dr. Jacob Gallagher is an Assistant Professor in the Kinesiology Department at Iowa State University. He received his B.S. in exercise physiology and psychology (double major) from the College of St. Scholastica (Duluth, MN) and M.S. in exercise physiology from Minnesota State University (Mankato, MN). He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Iowa in Health and Human Physiology. During his doctoral training, he worked in the Behavioral Medicine Lab (advisor: Dr. Lucas Carr), where he worked to design and evaluate a physical activity intervention for rural men. He also worked on research projects related to occupational physical activity and student health coaching. As a postdoctoral research scholar, he expanded his interest to focus on family health as well. He is particularly interested in using health interventions to address health holistically primarily by targeting physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep, but also through improving mental health, diet, and social health.

graduate Students

Kyuri Hong

I’m a first-year Ph.D. student in Kinesiology Department in Iowa State University. During my undergraduate studies, I majored in Sport Science with a strong interest in sport management and industry, and I gained research experience examining the role of AI in the sports industry. I then pursued a master’s degree in physical education, where I obtained a certified secondary school teaching license in physical education. My primary research area has been physical activity and measurement, with a focus on 24-hour daily activity analysis and validation studies using accelerometers and smart devices. I aim to develop and evaluate evidence-based interventions that promote healthier movement behaviors and reduce health disparities. My long-term goal is to apply my experience in physical education and research to support sustainable health and well-being.

Researchgate Link:

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Kyu-Ri-Hong/research

Alaina Elliott-Wherry

I am a first-year doctoral student in Kinesiology and Health. I received my B.S. in psychology and sociology (double major) with a minor in gender studies from Mount Mercy University (Cedar Rapids, IA) and MPH with an emphasis in community and behavioral health from the University of Iowa College of Public Health. During my master's, I focused on community-engaged research (CEnR) and projects with children and youth with special health care needs, local health departments, and community-based organizations. My role prior to this involved evaluating evidence-based practices and supporting behavioral health care providers across the state who work with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI). My aspiring research interests are rooted in using mixed methods, CEnR, and multilevel interventions to address health disparities and promote physical activity amongst individuals living with SPMI in rural Iowa.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaina-elliott

Google Scholar account: https://tinyurl.com/AElliott-Wherry-Google-Scholar

Email: anew@iastate.edu

UNdergraduate Students

Jenna Rogers

I am a junior at Iowa State University, studying Kinesiology, focusing on pre-physical therapy. I am originally from West Des Moines and aspire to become a travel physical therapist, combining my passion for health and wellness with the opportunity to explore new places. In my free time, I enjoy working out and reading. I’m excited to work with others on research projects and contribute to the field of physical therapy!

Ikra Farah

I am a junior majoring in Kinesiology and Health at Iowa State University. I am interested in understanding the challenges faced by underserved and underrepresented communities, particularly how social determinants of health affect these populations. I currently plan to pursue a graduate degree in either Kinesiology or Public Health to continue advancing my knowledge and work toward improving health outcomes for these communities.

Reilly Sedlacek

I am an undergraduate student at Iowa State where I study Kinesiology on the pre-physical therapy track. I plan to attend a graduate school to obtain my doctorate of physical therapy and work with pediatric patients. Besides being a student at Iowa State, I am also a professional dancer in a Chicago based company called TIDC. Within this company I have been able to perform and travel the world including visiting places like Japan, Scotland, Netherlands and more.

Chris Buchwald

I am a senior at Iowa State, majoring in Kinesiology and a minor in Biology. Upon graduation, I plan to attend either medical or physical therapy school. In addition to participating on Dr. Gallagher's Health Intervention Research Team, I work as an undergraduate research assistant with Dr. Swamy, researching drugs to improve the quality of life for individuals with epilepsy. Outside of classes, I enjoy playing basketball, working out, and spending my time outdoors.

Alex Helmke

I am a freshman at Iowa State majoring in Athletic Training in the 3+2 program. In pursuit of working with a collegiate or professional team. I am also a member of the ISU weightlifting and ISU rugby club.

Raina Henrichs

I am a junior at Iowa State University, studying Kinesiology on the pre-medical track. I plan to attend graduate school to become a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. I hope to be able to work in underserved communities one day to ensure everyone has equitable access to healthcare. In my time outside of class and work, I enjoy participating in my sorority activities, playing intramural sports, and spending time with friends and family.

Hannah Fishwild

I am a senior at Iowa State University majoring in Kinesiology and Health on a pre-physical therapy track, with plans to pursue a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. On campus I serve as a College of Health and Human Science Ambassador. I am also involved in the Pre-Health Club, Pre-Physical Therapy Club and Motor Control Lab. Outside of school I enjoy spending time with family & friends, travelling, and being outside.

Lucy Younk

I am a junior at Iowa State University majoring in Kinesiology on the pre-physical therapy track. After graduation, I plan to pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree with the goal of working in a facility specializing in neurological injury recovery. In addition to Dr. Gallagher’s Health Intervention Research Team I also collaborate with Dr. Welk on the Walk With Ease Program, gaining valuable experience in both clinical and community-based research. Outside of academics, I enjoy running, strength training, and traveling.

Paige Kerr

I am a sophomore undergraduate student currently studying biology on a pre-med track at Iowa State University. I am interested in contributing to improving our healthcare system, uplifting women, and helping to harbor a comfortable and safe learning environment wherever I am. After graduating from Iowa State University, I plan on attending medical school and explore my interest in Emergency Medicine and trauma services.

Kaylin Dains

I am a sophomore studying Community and Regional Planning with minors in Geographic Information Systems and Political Science. I hope to someday be either a city or transportation planner somewhere in the Midwest. I am part of this team as part of the First Years Honors Mentor Program through the honors program. This research is interesting to me because I like to see the differences in lifestyles of people dependent on their location. Outside of school, I like crocheting, sewing and bouldering.

Natalie Lewis

I am a senior undergraduate student studying Kinesiology on a pre-med track with a minor in Biology at Iowa State University. After graduation, I plan on attending medical school with the goal of pursuing my interests in pediatrics and sports medicine. On campus, I am a Peer Mentor for the Freshman Learning Community in the Department of Kinesiology and Health in the College of Health and Human Sciences.

Interested in being part of this incredible team? See Join the team

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