Melissa Crowe

A/Prof Melissa Crowe is the Head of the Cohort Doctoral Studies Program. This novel program supports working health professionals to complete a research degree relavent to their work. Melissa's dedication and excellence in developing and leading the Cohort Doctoral Studies Program was recognised with a JCU Citation for Outstanding Contribution to Student Learning in 2018, a JCU Award for Excellence in Graduate Research Leadership in 2019 and a Australian Council of Graduate Research Special Commendation award for Industry Engagement in Graduate Research in 2021.

Melissa has over 20 years experience researching the issues of exercise in hot and humid environments and drugs and supplements in sport. Melissa has past and current links with the Australian Defence Force and the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO). These links have included joint research and research consultancies exploring military issues based on deployment to hot and/or humid environments. Melissa is currently the main national provider for heat tolerance testing for the Australian Defence Force. Melissa also performs heat tolerance testing for private companies or citizens when required. Past research collaborations and consultancies based on exercise in hot and humid conditions include the Fire and Rescue Authority, QLD Nickel, NQ Cowboys, and the former NQ Fury.

Melissa's other main area of expertise is the effects of drugs and supplements on exercise performance. Melissa has conducted research into caffeine, HMB, sodium citrate, branched chain amino acids, nicotine and sports drinks.