Senlin Chen

Dr. Senlin Chen is the Helen “Bessie” Silverberg Pliner Professor in the School of Kinesiology at Louisiana State University's College of Human Sciences & Education. He holds a PhD in Kinesiology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (2011), a Master's in Physical Education from Beijing Normal University (2007), and a Bachelor's in Physical Education from the same institution (2005). His office is located at 2124 HPL Field House.

Dr. Chen's research program focuses on:

• Physical education curriculum interventions
• Youth physical activity, fitness, and health promotion
• Achievement motivation in physical activity settings
• Behavioral and social determinants of health

His work has secured over $4.5 million in funding from organizations including NIH, USDA, Louisiana Department of Health, and SHAPE America.

Analysis of Dr. Chen's recent publications (2021-2024) reveals strong thematic patterns in:

• Physical education curriculum innovations
• Health behavior interventions during COVID-19
• Equity-focused approaches in youth fitness
• Motivational frameworks in exercise settings
• Comparative effectiveness of exercise modalities

This research consistently addresses practical challenges in kinesiology education and public health.

His scientific contributions have been recognized through:

• LSU Distinguished Faculty Award
• CHSE Distinguished Research Award
• SHAPE Joy of Effort Award

Dr. Chen directs the Pedagogical Kinesiology Laboratory (PK Lab), where he leads multiple funded projects. He maintains active service commitments as:

• Guest editor and editorial board member for journals including JTPE, JSHS, and Biomedical Research International
• Chair/executive member for professional organizations (AERA SIG93, SHAPE CSPAP SIG, ICSPAH)
• Scientific reviewer for NIH study sections and Hong Kong Research Grants Council

Outside academia, he enjoys weight training, tennis, golf, cycling, and supporting LSU athletics.