Welcome to the Behavior, Exercise, and Activity for Transformation (BEAT) Lab!

Dr. Jingxi Sheng (grey zipper jacket, second from the right) and her BEAT lab members smiling as they stand behind a small table with a red UW-Madison, School of nursing tablecloth during a lab event.

Welcome to the Behavior, Exercise, and Activity for Transformation (BEAT) Lab! Our lab is dedicated to advancing cancer prevention, survivorship, and health equity through community-engaged and behavior-focused research. We study how physical activity, lifestyle behaviors, stress, and social and cultural factors shape health across the cancer continuum, with a particular focus on underserved and historically marginalized populations.

Through interdisciplinary and community-centered approaches, we develop and evaluate culturally responsive interventions that promote healthier lifestyles, improve cancer prevention and early detection, and support long-term well-being. Our work integrates behavioral science, implementation science, qualitative and mixed methods research, and real-world community partnerships to translate evidence into meaningful public health impact.

Beyond research, the BEAT Lab is committed to fostering a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive environment where students and community partners can learn, grow, and contribute to improving overall health and reducing cancer disparities.