Andy Askow, M.S., USAW-II
Graduate Student, Department of Health and Kinesiology
Area of Study: Exercise Physiology
Email: askow2@illinois.edu
Education & Professional Experience
- 2017 B.S., Exercise and Sport Science, University of Wisconsin-La Cross (La Cross, WI)
- 2018-2019, Lab Coordinator, The Sport Science Center at Texas Christian University (Forth Worth, TX)
- 2019 M.S., Kinesiology, Texas Christian University (Forth Worth, TX)
About
Andy’s research interest centers around the adaptation to resistance exercise. Specifically, he seeks to investigate training strategies that optimize performance and functional capacity in both athletes and general exercisers. Andy also has experience in strength and conditioning for a variety of sports.
Hobbies
Collecting old stock vintage wallpaper rolls. They don’t make ’em like they use to.
Takeshi Barnes, M.S., ATC, CSCS
Graduate Student, Department of Health and Kinesiology
Area of Study: Exercise Physiology
Email: dillonb4@illinois.edu
Education & Professional Experience
- 2021 M.S., Exercise Science & Nutrition, Sacred Heart University (Fairfield, CT)
- 2017 B.S., Athletic & Exercise Therapy, Camosun College (Victoria, BC)
About
Takeshi has a research interest in the area of muscle physiology and sports performance. Specifically, his research aims to evaluate how dietary protein, energy intake, and exercise modulate adaptations in skeletal muscle. In addition, Takeshi carries with him an applied background in sports medicine and sports performance, having worked as an Athletic Trainer and Strength & Conditioning Coach with athletes ranging from high school to the national level.
Hobbies
I enjoy real-world treasure hunting with a particular interest in geocaching. In fact, I am a real stickler when it comes to properly maintaining my geocache!
Max Deutz, MS, RD, CSSD
Email: maxtd2@illinois.edu
Education & Professional Experience
•2016 – B. A. – Nutrition (Dietetics) at Saint John’s University (Collegeville, MN)
•2018 – M. S. – Nutrition (Wellness) at Bradley University (Peoria, IL)
•2019 – Sports Nutrition Assistant at University of Notre Dame (Notre Dame, IN)
•2020 – Sports Nutrition Associate at University of Notre Dame (Notre Dame, IN)
•2021 – Co-Director of Sports Nutrition (Interim) at University of Notre Dame (Notre Dame, IN)
Credentials
•Registered Dietitian (2018)
•Certified Specialist In Sports Dietetics (2020)
About
Max has a research interest in the area of nutrition and exercise performance. Specifically, he is invested in enhancing understanding on nutritional interventions capable of augmenting muscle protein synthesis as a means to improve exercise performance. His practical work formerly fueling student-athletes at Notre Dame serves as a foundation to pair with his current research endeavors as he aspires to continue helping athletes succeed.
Hobbies
Extreme ironing is the name of my game (sometimes called EI). My favorite Sunday activity is wrinkling my entire wardrobe and then ironing it.
Zan Zupancic M.S., CD
Graduate Student, Department of Health and Kinesiology
Area of Study: Exercise Physiology
Email: zanz3@illinios.edu
Education & Professional Experience
- 2015 B.S. Food Science and Nutrition (University of Ljubljana)
- 2018 Practical exchange, Muscle Metabolism Maastricht (M3) research unit
- 2019 M.S. Nutrition (University of Ljubljana)
Credentials
- Clinical dietitian (2020)
About
Zan has a research interest in performance and clinical nutrition and exercise physiology, particularly related to protein metabolism.
Hobbies
I fancy myself as a pop-tart connoisseur. I truly enjoy tasting the various flavors (i.e., standard to seasonal flavors) of these toaster pastries. I get particularly excited about the limited edition flavors. Also, as noted by my picture, I like green folders.
Gena Irwin, M.S
Graduate Student, Department of Health and Kinesiology
Area of Study: Exercise Physiology
Email: genai2@illinois.edu
Education & Professional Experience
- 2017 B.S., Clinical Physiology; General Biology – Central Washington University (Ellensburg, WA)
- 2017-2019, Cardiac Rehabilitation Aide – Virginia Mason (Yakima, WA)
- 2022-2024, Nutrition Intern – Vandal Athletics (Moscow, ID)
- 2024 M.S., Movement and Leisure Science, University of Idaho (Moscow, ID)
About
Gena’s research interests include protein timing, protein intake, and body composition. She is also interested in contributing to research on female health, exercise, and nutrition. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and playing with her German Shepard, Cleopatra.
Hobbies
I have a general interest in interpretive dance, particularly at zoos. The wildlife really seems to connect with the music, movement, and pure emotion. Favorite Quote: “Dance like no one is watching”.
