About Us
Lab Overview
The Integrative Cardiovascular Physiology & Health Laboratory (ICPHL) at Ohio University studies how biological, psychological, and social factors interact to shape cardiovascular health. Our research focuses on understanding why certain populations are at elevated risk for cardiovascular disease and how this knowledge can inform more effective and equitable prevention strategies.
Research Overview
Our work centers on
- Psychosocial and environmental influences on heart and vascular health
- Cardiovascular disease risk in at‑risk and special populations
- Mechanisms linking stress, physiology, and health disparities
We employ advanced cardiovascular and vascular function methodologies, including ultrasound-based assessments, reactive hyperemia, flow-mediated dilation, cardiovascular reactivity testing, and central hemodynamics. Our goal is to translate these findings into meaningful prevention and intervention strategies.
Why It Matters
Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, yet its burden is not evenly distributed. By identifying how stress and environment become biologically embedded, our work seeks to clarify the roots of cardiovascular health disparities and contribute to evidence-based strategies that promote cardiovascular equity and population health.
Lab Values
The ICPHL is committed to producing high-quality, rigorous, and reproducible science with real-world impact. We value collaboration, interdisciplinary perspectives, and inclusive research practices. Central to our mission is a commitment to addressing health disparities and improving cardiovascular outcomes for populations that have been historically underrepresented or disproportionately affected.
Principal Investigator
Zachary T. Martin, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Exercise Physiology at Ohio University and Director of the ICPHL. His research examines how psychosocial stress and vascular function interact to influence cardiovascular disease risk, particularly among populations at elevated risk.
Dr. Martin completed postdoctoral training at the Emory University Rollins School of Public Health through the NIH T32 METRIC program and earned his Ph.D. in Integrative Physiology from the University of Texas at Arlington. He has authored over 20 peer-reviewed publications in journals including Hypertension, Circulation, and Biological Psychiatry, and his work has been recognized by the American Heart Association and the American Physiological Society.
Join the Lab
We welcome undergraduate and graduate students interested in cardiovascular physiology, public health, and health disparities research. As a growing lab, students have the opportunity to be involved from the ground up—helping shape projects, contribute ideas, and gain hands-on research experience.
Students in the lab receive training in:
- Study design and data collection
- Cardiovascular and vascular function testing
- Statistical analysis and research methods
Lab members may also have opportunities to present at regional and national conferences and contribute to peer-reviewed publications.
Interested in joining the lab or learning more? Please reach out to discuss current projects and opportunities.
Contact us
E-Mail: ztmartin@ohio.edu
Phone: 740-597-1362
Address: 53 Richland Ave, Athens, OH 45701