Alexander to help lead American Physiological Society

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Lacy Alexander, professor of kinesiology at Penn State, has been elected as a councilor of the American Physiological Society (APS). She was selected by a vote of APS members and will serve on the leadership council for three years. 

APS was founded in 1887 with the mission of advancing scientific discovery, understanding life, and improving health through physiology. Its membership comprises nearly 10,000 researchers across the country and around the world who investigate the way that living organisms function, from the macro-level of how the environment affects humans down to the micro-level of how biomolecules affect tissue or organ function. 

“It is an honor and a privilege to join the leadership council of an organization that has been central to my development as a researcher,” Alexander said.

As a graduate student, APS provided Alexander with networking opportunities and recognized her work through trainee awards. She has remained active in the society since that time.

Alexander investigates the way environment affects human functioning. Currently, she studies tiny blood vessels in human skin. By understanding the ways that blood vessels in the skin function at different ages, at different temperatures, or when exposed to different medications, she can gain insights about the entire human circulatory system without invasive experiments.

According to Alexander, APS is central to the continued development of physiology. APS Annual Meetings enable members to remain informed about the latest scientific developments. APS also publishes some of the most important physiology journals. Additionally, APS reaches out to journalists and funding agencies to ensure that society understands significant research innovations and trends in the field.

“APS recently adopted a new five-year plan,” Alexander explained. “I am excited to join the council and help provide pathways to enact the plan. The new diversity, inclusivity, and equity initiatives are particularly close to my heart. Along with the rest of the council, I am determined to make sure that the field of physiology is inclusive of and representative of the people who benefit from physiology research, which is everyone.” 

Alexander's term officially begins at the APS Annual Meeting on April 27 through April 30, 2021.