The Horse Science & Innovation Lab
Goals
Our team studies horse movement, physiology, and behavior using a mix of mathematics, engineering, and equine science. We analyze how gait, breathing, and heart rate are linked in both horses and riders, with applications in training, performance, and welfare. Using high-speed video, motion tracking, and computational modeling, we assess movement asymmetries that can reveal injury patterns or training imbalances. We also apply computational fluid dynamics to study blood flow and turbulence in the equine cardiovascular system, helping us understand risks like sudden cardiac death.
Beyond biomechanics, we investigate equine behavior and welfare, using data-driven methods to study horse personality, learning, and stress responses. Our goal is to support evidence-based training and management practices that improve horse well-being in sport, rehabilitation, and daily care. Students on our team gain hands-on research experience, working with real data from horses at the Al Marah Equine Center. This team is a good fit for students in mathematics, engineering, veterinary science, animal behavior, and biomechanics who want to apply their skills to real-world problems. Learn more about the broader interests of the Miller Lab.
Issues Involved or Addressed
- Gait, breathing, and heart rate coupling – How movement and physiology synchronize in horses and riders.
- Movement asymmetries – Identifying imbalances in gait linked to injury, training, or biomechanics.
- Computational modeling – Using math and engineering to analyze equine motion and physiology.
- Fluid dynamics of circulation – Studying blood flow and turbulence to understand sudden cardiac death in horses.
- High-speed video and motion tracking – Measuring movement patterns and detecting asymmetries.
- Equine behavior and personality – Using data-driven methods to study learning, stress, and welfare.
- Evidence-based training and management – Applying research to improve horse care and performance.
- Hands-on research with live horses – Collecting and analyzing real-world data at Al Marah Equine Center.
- STEM applications in equine science – Bridging mathematics, engineering, and animal science.
Methods and Tech
- High-speed video analysis – Capturing and quantifying horse and rider movement.
- Motion tracking and inertial measurement – Measuring stride patterns, asymmetries, and coordination.
- Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) – Simulating blood flow and turbulence in the equine cardiovascular system.
- Mathematical modeling – Developing equations and simulations to describe gait mechanics and physiology.
- Data science and signal processing – Analyzing heart rate, respiration, and movement data.
- Wearable sensors – Monitoring physiological responses in horses and riders.
- Equine behavior analysis – Applying quantitative methods to study learning, stress, and personality.
- Engineering design – Developing tools and systems for equine biomechanics research.
Academic Majors of Interest
We are open to students from all disciplines but especially seek participants from:
- Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences
- Biomedical Engineering
- Computer Science
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Mathematics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Physiology and Medical Sciences
- Psychology
Preferred Interests and Preparation
Students are not expected to have all of these skills—rather, a subset that aligns with their major and interests is sufficient. Our team is interdisciplinary, and each student brings a unique perspective, whether in mathematics, engineering, computer science, animal science, or physiology. We encourage applicants who are eager to learn, collaborate, and apply their expertise to equine biomechanics, physiology, and behavior. Training will be provided as needed, so students should be motivated to develop new skills and contribute to the team.
Skills:
- Data analysis and statistical reasoning
- Computational modeling and simulation
- Engineering design and problem-solving
- Motion tracking and biomechanics analysis
- Experience with programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB, R)
- Familiarity with wearable sensors and physiological monitoring
- Laboratory or field research experience
- Knowledge of equine science, behavior, or veterinary principles
Attributes:
- Curious and eager to apply STEM to real-world problems
- Detail-oriented and analytical thinker
- Willing to work with live animals in a research setting
- Comfortable collaborating across disciplines
- Self-motivated and able to work independently
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Open to learning new methods and technologies
Application Process
To express interest in this team, please complete the VIP Interest Form and select "The Horse Science & Innovation Lab "
This team accepts new students at the start of each semester. This VIP team is open to taking on student researchers for course credit or as work-study students when possible.