Professor Sheryl Bourgaize is the director of the STRIDE Lab and an assistant professor in the Department of Biology at Cape Breton University. Professor Bourgaize leads a team of graduate and undergraduate students.
Meet our current research team.
Postdoctoral Fellowship 2024, University of Waterloo
PhD Kinesiology 2023, Wilfrid Laurier University
MSc Biomechanics 2018, University of Guelph
BSc Honours Human Kinetics 2016, University of Guelph
At STRIDE Lab (SpatioTemporal Research in Interactive Dynamic Environments), my research examines how vision and locomotion interact to shape adaptive movement strategies in dynamic, virtual and real-world environments. I am particularly interested in how visual cues and environmental complexity influence gait and navigation, and how these processes vary across the lifespan and with different levels of ability. My work combines portable eye tracking, motion capture, and virtual reality to quantify visuo-locomotor control strategies during obstacle negotiation, circumvention, and daily navigation. I explore how athletes adapt to complex environments, how older adults adjust their movement to maintain safety, and how inclusive design can support mobility for individuals with disabilities. Through this research, I aim to advance knowledge of human movement, inform interventions to promote safe and efficient navigation, and contribute to the development of accessible environments that accommodate the needs of diverse populations.
I am currently considering applications for undergraduate student positions.
More information can be found on how to get involved on our STRIDE Lab website, or email me to discuss current available positions.
Outside of research and teaching, I am actively involved in fitness and community initiatives. I am a certified HYROX and CrossFit coach with a passion for promoting strength and functional movement.
I also serve as the Conference Events Coordinator for International Women in Biomechanics (IWB) and am a member of the IslandWISE committee, supporting programs that encourage women and girls in science and engineering.