Salvador “Cha” Jaime
Tykeson Hall 337
1500 SW Chandler Avenue
Bend, OR 97702
United States
Salvador J. Jaime received his B.S. from Oregon State University, M.S. from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and Ph.D. from Florida State University. After seven years teaching at UWL, he finally returns home to Oregon State University.
In his previous role as the director of a clinical exercise physiology graduate program, Dr. Jaime has significantly influenced the curriculum to emphasize both theoretical knowledge and practical application. He has integrated hands-on research opportunities for students, allowing them to engage in projects that explore the effects of exercise on physical performance and vascular function in various populations, including older adults and individuals with metabolic disorders.
Through his dual role as a researcher and educator, Dr. Jaime is dedicated to bridging the gap between scientific research and real-world applications. His commitment to community health initiatives and public health advocacy reinforces the importance of physical activity as a cornerstone of cardiovascular wellness, making a significant impact on both academic and practical fronts in the field of exercise science.
Research Interests
Dr. Jaime’s main objective is to find effective non-pharmacological therapies to prevent or attenuate two major health problems associated with aging: arterial dysfunction and sarcopenia (recently characterized as a loss of muscle mass, strength [dynapenia], and physical performance).
His research has particularly focused on how different forms of exercise, such as resistance training and aerobic activities, or supplementation can improve vascular health and enhance blood flow. For instance, in his studies, Dr. Jaime has demonstrated that regular aerobic exercise and L-citrulline supplementation can lead to significant improvements in endothelial function, which is critical for maintaining healthy blood vessels and preventing cardiovascular diseases.
Recently, he has become interested in the impact of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS; e.g. vaping) on vascular function, given its inherent impact on the sympathetic branch and consequently smooth muscle reactivity, and exercise capacity. The popularity of these devices among college-aged adults may have a significant, and potentially irreversible, longitudinal effect on vascular function and ultimately cardiovascular disease risk.
Dr. Jaime’s work has been published in high-impact journals, such as the Journal of Applied Physiology, Experimental Gerontology, and Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, where he has discussed findings related to how interval training can enhance vascular adaptations more effectively than steady-state exercise. His presentations at national and international conferences, such as the American College of Sports Medicine's Annual Meeting, have garnered attention for their insights into exercise prescription for cardiovascular health.
Students interested in participating in research are urged to contact him directly at cha.jaime@osucascades.edu.