Jason Gillis

Dr. Jason Gillis serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Sport & Movement Science at Salem State University, where he teaches advanced courses including Human Performance in Extreme Environments, Research Methods in Exercise Science, and Exercise Physiology II. He supervises student research in the Human Performance Laboratory and maintains an active research agenda focused on environmental physiology and performance optimization.

His academic foundation includes:

• B.Sc (Hon) in Kinesiology from Dalhousie University, Canada
• Master's degree from KU Leuven University, Belgium, and the Norwegian School of Sports Science, Norway
• Ph.D. completed through UK Sport's Research and Innovation Team supporting Beijing and London Olympic preparations

Dr. Gillis specializes in environmental physiology with primary research on menthol's effects on human temperature regulation, thermal perception, and athletic performance. His work bridges laboratory investigations with practical sports applications, examining how thermal interventions influence physiological responses during exercise in extreme conditions. He also investigates recovery modalities for exercise-induced muscle damage and sport-specific performance metrics in combat sports like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a concentrated research trajectory centered on menthol's ergogenic potential and recovery mechanisms. Over the past six years, he has systematically explored menthol dose-response relationships, its application in Olympic sports, and interactions with environmental stressors. His parallel work on foam rolling and phototherapy has established foundational knowledge about non-pharmacological recovery techniques and their impact on autonomic function.

Dr. Gillis actively mentors students through research practicum courses (SMS 477/478H) and has co-authored numerous publications with student researchers. His conference presentations at major venues including the American College of Sports Medicine and International Conference of Environmental Ergonomics demonstrate sustained scholarly engagement and knowledge dissemination.

The Human Performance Laboratory at Salem State University serves as the operational hub for his investigations into human physiological responses under extreme environmental conditions and sport-specific demands, supporting both his research program and student training initiatives.