Research Interests:
My research focuses on the effects of heat stress on human health, with a particular emphasis on occupational heat stress. More recently, my work has centered on understanding the impact of performing work in hot environments on kidney and gut health. I have conducted studies examining how factors such as work intensity, muscle contraction types, and lifestyle choices, including alcohol use and NSAID consumption, contribute to the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) and endotoxemia. Additionally, my research aims to identify strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of heat stress, particularly in high-risk occupations affected by global warming. Beyond occupational heat stress, I have also investigated high-intensity interval training (HIIT), recovery methods (cold water immersion), and exercise protocols to improve performance and health outcomes.

Selected Publications:
Specht JW, Bailly AR, Garcia S, Klepacz S, De Oliveira SA, Lucero D, McKenna ZJ, Schlader ZJ, Amorim FT. Effect of Ibuprofen on Markers of Acute Kidney Injury, Intestinal Injury, and Endotoxemia after Running in the Heat. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2025 Jan 29. doi: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000003659. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39876077.

Amorim F, Schlader Z. The kidney under heat stress: a vulnerable state. Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens. 2025 Mar 1;34(2):170-176. doi: 10.1097/MNH.0000000000001050. Epub 2024 Dec 13. PMID: 39688252.

Masoud A, McKenna ZJ, Li Z, Deyhle MR, Mermier CM, Schlader ZJ, Amorim FT. Strategies to mitigate acute kidney injury risk during physical work in hot environments. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol. 2024 Feb 1. doi: 10.1152/ajprenal.00350.2023. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 38299216.
Special Interests:
In my spare time, I enjoy coaching soccer and have been an assistant coach at the New Mexico Soccer Academy for the past seven years. It has been a rewarding experience working with youth players and helping them develop their skills. I also love spending time with my family. My son is now 15 years old, and I love every moment with him and my wife, Caroline. We enjoy traveling together and staying active. When it comes to sports and exercise, I still enjoy swimming and volleyball, though I play less soccer due to an injury. However, I remain active, performing strength training and running as part of my regular workout routine.