Caroline Smith, PhD

Associate Professor, Thermal Physiology, Graduate Faculty, Department of Public Health and Exercise Science, Appalachian State University

Dr. Smith is Director of the Thermal and Microvascular Physiology Laboratory which focuses on human thermoregulation and physiological responses to environmental stressors.  Current research includes utilizing novel approaches, including microdialysis and laser Doppler flowmetry, for assessing dermal carcinogen absorption and elucidating key factors modulating absorption during occupational exposure in firefighters. Understanding carcinogen exposure routes is of fundamental importance in various occupational settings to inform risk mitigation strategies and improve long term health outcomes. Additional ongoing lines of investigation include examining in vivo signaling mechanisms underlying thermoregulatory and microvascular dysfunction in primary aging and cardiovascular disease groups.  Dr. Smith holds a Postdoctoral Research Fellow with a specialization in Thermal and microvascular physiology from The Pennsylvania State University, a Ph.D. with a specialization in Thermal Physiology from Loughborough University, and a Bachelors of Science in Human Biology from Loughborough University.  She currently teaches Human Physiology and Environmental Physiology and is the Director of the Thermal and Microvascular Physiology Laboratory.  She is affiliated with American Physiological Society, American Heart Association and American College of Sports Medicine.