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Meet our Team

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Blake Rasmussen, PhD

Professor and Chair

Chair, Cellular and Integrative Physiology

Director, Center for Metabolic Health

Dr. Rasmussen’s research is in the area of muscle physiology and metabolism. Research topics include: 1) molecular mechanisms regulating muscle growth and atrophy in aging and disease; 2) mTORC1 and nutrient signaling in skeletal muscle; 3) molecular transducers of physical activity; and 4) cellular mechanisms underlying metabolic dysfunction. The lab conducts research in both humans and transgenic mouse models.  The goal of the lab is to develop new strategies and therapies to counteract muscle loss with aging (Sarcopenia) and to improve metabolic health in older adults.

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Jacquelyn May, MS

Laboratory Manager

Jacquelyn was born and raised in North Texas and received her bachelors and masters at Stephen F. Austin State University in Biology. After graduating Jacquelyn joined Blake’s lab working in both his clinical and mouse research. In her current role, she oversees daily operations, supports the research team, and ensures efficient and safe lab practices. After work Jacquelyn enjoys crocheting, cooking, and spending time with her friends.



Sean Kilroe, PhD

Post Doc

Sean completed his doctoral training at the Universities of Exeter and Maastricht in the UK and Netherlands, respectively. His current research focuses on skeletal muscle health and interventions that result in muscle atrophy/hypertrophy.

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Anya Kalenta, MS

Graduate Student

I am a PhD student in biomedical sciences. My research investigates how exercise impacts muscle metabolism in mice with hyperactive mTORC1, with a primary focus on metabolomics and lipidomics analyses. I am very passionate about using scientific research to help people improve their health!   


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Erik Marchant, MS

Graduate Student

Erik is originally from Utah, where he received bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Nutritional Science from Brigham Young University. He joined the Rasmussen lab because of his interest in skeletal muscle metabolism. After obtaining his PhD, he plans to pursue a postdoctoral fellowship and then start his own lab. When not in the lab, Erik enjoys running, hiking, and spending time with his wife Abby.

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