UROP Project

The Effects of Lactoferrin and Iron Supplementation on Functional Iron Transport and Tissue Oxygenation in Athletic Populations

Exercise Physiology, Sports Science, Clinical, Athlete, Supplement, Performance
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Research Mentor: sf24i@fsu.edu Sadio Fenner,
Department, College, Affiliation: HNFS, Education, Health, and Human Sciences
Contact Email: sf24i@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators: Dr. Michael Ormsbee
Faculty Collaborators Email: mormsbee@fsu.edu
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors, preferably people who have backgrounds in nutrition, health sciences, exercise physiology, and sports.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required:
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hours, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable

Project Description

To investigate the effects of 8 weeks of Lactoferrin and iron supplementation on functional iron transport and tissue oxygenation in athletic populations. Study design is expected to include VO2 peak testing for oxygen consumption, near-infrared spectroscopy to measure real-time muscle oxygen saturation (SmO₂) and total hemoglobin (tHB) in active muscle tissue, carbon monoxide rebreathing to measure total hemoglobin mass and blood volume, as well as blood biomarkers related to inflammation, immune, and recovery status.

Research Tasks: Literature review, data collection and analysis, study visits

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required; Good communication, personable, open-minded, positive attitude. Recommended: basic lab etiquette

Mentoring Philosophy

At the core of my philosophy is a commitment to creating a learning environment where every student feels seen, heard, and respected. I believe that meaningful education begins with genuine connection. When students feel valued as individuals, they are more engaged, confident, and motivated to learn. My goal as a mentor is to meet students where they are and support them in developing both competence and curiosity, regardless of the career paths they ultimately pursue. I strive to design learning experiences that foster critical thinking, encourage thoughtful discussion, and highlight the relevance of course material to a variety of professional and personal contexts. Whether a student plans to become a clinician, researcher, coach, or work in an entirely different field, I want them to leave this space with skills and perspectives that will empower them to succeed and to contribute meaningfully to their communities. I also believe in modeling humility and lifelong learning. By creating a space where questions are welcomed, mistakes are treated as opportunities for growth, and diverse viewpoints are explored with openness, I hope to help students build confidence in their own voices and see learning as a collaborative process. My aim will always be to help students recognize their potential, develop a sense of purpose, and feel inspired to keep learning long after they move on from our lab.

Additional Information


Link to Publications

linkedin.com/in/sadio-f-02598a139
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