Steven Prior

Steven Prior is an Associate Professor and Associate Chair for Research in the Department of Kinesiology at the University of Maryland's School of Public Health. His research focuses on translational exercise interventions to reduce aging-associated vascular and functional impairments in older adults, particularly those with cardiometabolic disorders. His work explores molecular, cellular, and whole-body contributors to diseases like type 2 diabetes and sarcopenia.

Education:

• PhD in Kinesiology, University of Maryland College Park (2005)
• MA in Sport and Exercise Science, Ohio State University (2001)
• BS in Sports Medicine, University of Pittsburgh (1999)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship in Gerontology and Metabolism, University of Maryland School of Medicine (2008)

Research Interests: Prior investigates mechanisms of vascular dysfunction and aging, leveraging advanced techniques like contrast-enhanced ultrasound and cell culture models. His lab studies angiogenesis, skeletal muscle capillarization, and exercise-induced improvements in vascular health.

Grants & Funding: Supported by NIH and VA grants examining exercise's role in restoring angiogenesis and metabolism in peripheral arterial disease and sarcopenia.

Awards:

• 2022 Winston Family Honors Award (Faculty Mentor)
• 2019 Maryland Research Excellence Honoree
• 2012 Paul B. Beeson Scholar
• 2007 New Investigator Research Award (The Obesity Society)

Labs/Teams: Directs a lab integrating exercise science, vascular biology, and aging research. Collaborates with clinical teams on translational studies.