Richard Kesler is a Research Engineer with UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI). His research has focused on biomechanics, health, and physical performance, specifically examining the physiological demands of firefighting activity and the impact of firefighting on the firefighter and their equipment. Prior to joining FSRI in October 2022, Richard served as the Deputy Director of Research Programs at the University of Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI). He is a member of the Savoy (IL) Fire Department, where he has served at ranks up to Assistant Chief. Richard holds a PhD in Kinesiology and Master of Science and Bachelor of Science degrees in bioengineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

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