by Julie Dufresne | Oct 15, 2025 | Uncategorized
Originally from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Muhammad Bensalim holds a Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology from Université Sainte-Anne, where he developed a strong foundation in human physiology and cellular health. His deep interest in the connection between science and human performance has shaped his academic journey and continues to drive his current research. As part of his research-based master’s program in health sciences at Université de Sherbrooke and supervised by Professors Saïd Mekari and Myles O’Brien, Muhammad is investigating the effects of hypertrophy training on autonomic cardiovascular function. His thesis project aims to better understand how resistance training, beyond its impact on muscle mass, can influence heart health and overall well-being — an approach that bridges exercise physiology with preventive health. Outside of academia, Muhammad is actively involved in the fitness and strength sports community. A nationally ranked powerlifting athlete, he also shares his expertise as an online coach, helping athletes and enthusiasts reach their goals.
by Julie Dufresne | Apr 15, 2025 | funding, Uncategorized
This 5-year NSERC Discovery Grant project brings together expertise in activity monitor engineering and experimental biology to explore interdisciplinary questions related to sex differences in blood pressure regulation during sedentary postures. This research program aims to advance current methodologies while uncovering new insights into the vascular mechanisms that regulate blood pressure among males and females.
by Julie Dufresne | Oct 29, 2024 | Uncategorized
Shirko Ahmadi, Mathieu Belanger, Said Mekari and Pierre Philippe Wilson REGISTE from Lab IMPACTS join international researchers, practitioners and policy-makers at the 10th ISPAH – The International Society for Physical Activity and Health Congress in Paris.
Much interest from the scientific community during Pr Mekari’s oral presentation ‘Effects of a Community-based Physical Activity Program on Cognitive and Physical Function in Older Adults’ and Pr Bélanger’s scientific poster presentation: ‘Adolescent physical activity profiles as determinants of emerging adults’ physical activity’. A unique opportunity for knowledge sharing and enriching exchanges. This year’s congress’s theme is accelerating policy and practice to ensure physical activity for all.
by Julie Dufresne | Oct 10, 2024 | Uncategorized
IMPACTS Lab is pleased to welcome Madeline Shivgulam to the team. Madeline is a PhD student at Dalhousie University, co-supervised by Dr. Myles O’Brien of Université de Sherbrooke and Dr. Olga Theou of Dalhousie University. Her doctoral studies focus on physical activity and exercise among older adults in long-term and hospital care settings.
Madeline will work with Pr O’Brien and colleagues on several research projects including Preventing and Managing Frailty in Hospital by Mobilizing Patients and Establishing Mobile Aging Assessments in New Brunswick’s Long-Term Care Residents. Her research background focuses on improving health outcomes for older adults through interventions such as community- and clinical-based exercise and physical activity programs, with a particular emphasis on frailty and cardiovascular health.
Madeline enjoys spending time with her family and being active. As a former competitive swimmer, Madeline is already in great demand by her colleagues at Lab IMPACTS who are interested in improving their swimming technique and performance. Welcome to the team Madeline!
For more information on the research projects: https://impactslab.com/en/research/
by Julie Dufresne | Sep 5, 2024 | Uncategorized
Welcome to Salma Jemaa and Stéphanie Couturier, both doctoral students in health sciences at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences – Université de Sherbrooke at the Centre de formation médicale du N.-B. They both have previous training in nutrition and professional experience in hospital settings.
Salma’s research project, under the supervision of Professors Mathieu Belanger and Said Mekari, aims to understand the links between eating habits and mental health. As for Stéphanie, she is pursuing her doctoral studies under the co-direction of Professors Mathieu Belanger (Université de Sherbrooke), Caroline P. LeBlanc (Université de Moncton) and Stéphanie Ward Chiasson (Université de Moncton).
To learn more about Salma and Stéphanie, please visit their Linkedin profiles: Salma‘s Profile / Stéphanie‘s Profile
