Dr. Peterson’s research background is founded on biomedically-based applications [molecular to applied] in human, animal, and clinical settings. Specifically, his doctoral training was focused on applying the aforementioned methodologies toward the investigation of human movement-related physiological adaptations, and applying outcomes observed in animal models, in a clinically-based cancer patient population. In addition, he also conducted postdoctoral didactic and research-related training in the Colorado School of Public Health. 

Current research in the Peterson lab is focused on the investigation of blood and saliva-based biological markers of inflammation (cortisol, TNF-𝞪, IL-1-10, CRP, testosterone) in stress, exercise, and resting conditions. Current work has also included multiple collaborative published projects related to SARS-CoV-2. Upcoming SARS-CoV-2 projects include the investigation and profiling of multiple human conditional elements and the presence of vitamin D concentrations and blood-based antibodies for SARS-CoV-2 (IgG; nucleocapsid, receptor binding domain, spike 1 subunit, and spike 2 subunit).  

Dr. Peterson’s teaching expertise is focused within the breadth of Human Movement Physiology in research, clinical, and public health applications in both the Kinesiology B.S. program and in the Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) Program. He engages learning dynamically and energetically from the learn, do, teach perspective. Having completed thousands of direct clinical hours working with cancer patients, his goals are to emphasize the importance of the interpersonal and missional roles Biola students will have with their future patient populations. Thus, students are encouraged to creatively engage in the personal ownership process of material assimilation. He also emphasizes the importance of peer-reviewed research, case evaluation, and practical applications while encouraging students to be strong and courageous in the integration of their faith in Christ and how they approach their field of study. Students are encouraged to fervently and consistently draw closer to their Heavenly Father as they study God’s creation.