Behind the Science with Leila Walker, Research Physiologist in the Military Performance Division
How long have you been at the U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine?
I’ve been at USARIEM for just over 18 years. I was hired as a contractor during my last semester of grad school in March 2006 and was converted to a civilian six months later.
How did you become interested in Soldier Nutrition and Performance?
During grad school, one of my teaching assistants talked about her experience working with the military, and that sparked my interest in studying soldier performance. My schoolwork focused on exercise physiology, so I applied for a position here as a research assistant and was ultimately hired by the legendary Marilyn Sharp, who became my mentor. She taught me so much and the more I learned about the military and the unique challenges they face, the more inspired I was to continue along this path.
What projects are you currently working on?
I’m currently involved in a study examining the cognitive, physical, psychological, social and emotional factors that are predictive of musculoskeletal injuries in active-duty soldiers. We also just completed an exploratory project to characterize the physical, metabolic, and cognitive performance responses of warfighters before, during and after the 62-day Ranger Course.
In the near future, we will begin a similar project looking at differences in Soldiers during and after Special Operations training. I’m excited to continue this work.What aspects of your job do you love and find most gratifying?
I love the field work - traveling around the country and working in different operational environments. The work we’ve done in the field has had such a significant impact on policies that are enacted to improve the health, wellbeing, and readiness of soldiers.
What part of your job do you find to be the most difficult?
As much as I love the field work, being away from my husband and kids is probably the most difficult part.
When you are not at the Institute, what do you like to do for fun?
Cheering on my kids during their various sporting activities takes up most of my free time, but I have so much fun watching them do what they love to do. Aside from that, I like reading and listening to heavy metal (not always at the same time), and spending time at the beach during the summer.
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