Background

The Human Performance Laboratories (Australia) research group was formed in 2001, and combines research experience and expertise from three laboratories, focussing upon systems-based, integrated research in human and applied physiology. In the applied realm, researchers frequently deal with topics that require the application (translation) of scientific knowledge and principles to real-world problems:

• Cardiovascular Physiology and Nutrition Laboratory
• Exercise and Applied Cardiovascular Physiology Laboratory
• Thermal Physiology Laboratory

Members of the Human Performance Laboratories undertake research across the spectrum of human physiology, including cardiovascular physiology, metabolic physiology and biochemistry, and muscle, respiratory and environmental physiology.  Though each laboratory has unique and diverse research interests, the unifying research theme across all collaborative members is human cardiovascular function in health and disease.

Scientists from the Human Performance Laboratories have published several books and monographs. One of particular significance is the Physiological Bases of Human Performance during Work and Exercise. This is a high-level physiology text for advanced students, researchers and practitioners in the fields of human physiology, exercise science and applied physiology, with eighty internationally recognised scientists from sixteen countries writing Chapters, and contributing to topical debates.

The Human Performance Laboratories frequently undertake applied research for military and emergency service organisations. To support this work, members of the group have published several educational handbooks and training modules. One such publication is the handbook Physical performance optimisation: a handbook for firefighters. This text covers a wide range of relevant topics for firefighters, including: the physical demands of fire fighting, exercise prescription, hydration and heat illness topics, health and nutritional guidelines, medical advice, and topics relating to gender and ageing issues.

Research and scholastic activities:

• cardiovascular physiology and rehabilitation
• clinical research
• environmental (thermal) physiology
• ergonomics and human factors
• exercise physiology
• exercise and training prescription
• health and behavioural management
• human performance: physiological, physical and cognitive
• measurement and instrument design
• metabolism
• muscle mechanics and physiology
• occupational biomechanics
• pharmacology
• physical employment standards
• preventative health
• rehabilitation
• research design
• respiratory physiology
• statistical analysis and modelling