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MEET THE FOUNDER
Portrait of Dr. Jacqueline A. Burnes in a white lab coat, standing outdoors on a path, centered, vertical portrait orientation

Dr. Jacqueline A. Burnes is the Founder & CEO of SARDONYX COFFEE, a brand that prides itself on carefully crafted adaptogenic mushroom blends designed to significantly enhance cognitive efficiency and enhance performance in high-demand environments. The unique SARDONYX COFFEE formulas harness the power of mushrooms known for their ability to support mental clarity, focus, and resilience. SARDONYX COFFEE is ideal for those who face intense workloads, require sustained concentration and are searching for a natural solution to elevate mental capabilities and maintain peak performance under pressure.

 

Before establishing SARDONYX COFFEE, Dr. Burnes effectively harnessed the benefits of mushrooms in her daily routine to enhance her performance in high-pressure situations. Dr. Burnes is a clinical specialist (cardiology), an active researcher and educator with extensive training in cardiology. She serves as the Director of Preventive Cardiology and Rehabilitation Education & Services, as well as the Director of Heart Failure Education at Burnes Health. Dr. Burnes earned her doctorate degree in cardiovascular health where her academic journey culminated in a dissertation that focused on the critical issue of coronary artery disease. Her research, titled "Multifactorial Prevention Strategies to Mitigate the Onset of Coronary Artery Disease," meticulously examined a range of preventive measures, including lifestyle modifications, non-pharmacological interventions, and community health initiatives. Through comprehensive data analysis and clinical studies, she sought to identify effective strategies for reducing risk factors and improving cardiovascular patient outcomes. After successfully completing her doctorate degree, Dr. Burnes enrolled in the Applied Physiology graduate program at Columbia University, with a clinical focus on non-invasive diagnostic testing, and advanced cardiac rehabilitation techniques. In February 2026, Dr. Burnes was awarded a Master of Arts degree in Applied Physiology (Concentration: Cardiology) and will be awarded a a Master of Education degree in Applied Physiology (Concentration: Cardiology) in May 2027.

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Dr. Burnes completed her postdoctoral training in non-invasive cardiology at Columbia University within the Department of Biobehavioral Sciences, specifically at the Exert Clinic & CPET Laboratory. Her research focused on the critical intersection of two significant areas in cardiology: the prognostic value and diagnostic potential of cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) in patients diagnosed with heart failure and the prognostic implications of exercise capacity in individuals diagnosed with coronary artery disease (CAD). By focusing on these areas, Dr. Burnes aims to enhance the understanding of how exercise testing can inform treatment and improve patient outcomes.

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Dr. Burnes has held pivotal roles at Columbia University's Teachers College, where she served as both a Clinical Specialist and the Clinical Education Coordinator for the Applied Physiology Program, which prepares Master of Arts, Master of Education, Doctor of Education, and Doctor of Philosophy students for advanced careers in the field of physiology. ​In addition to her academic role, Dr. Burnes is a member of the American Society for Preventive Cardiology, contributing to the advancement of cardiovascular health. Within this esteemed organization, she is also a member of the Women's Preventive Cardiology subgroup, which focuses on strategies to improve heart health outcomes in women. Her work is aimed at preventing the onset of non-communicable diseases by developing and managing comprehensive cardiovascular prevention programs tailored to both community initiatives and individual client needs.

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As the founder of Burnes Health, along with her integral role in the clinical team at Columbia University-TC Exert Clinic & Laboratory, Dr. Burnes channels her expertise into improving the quality of life for patients suffering from cardiovascular disease (CVD). ​In collaboration with the clinical rheumatology research team led by Dr. Brendon Richbourgh, M.D., a doctoral candidate at Columbia University, Teachers College, Dr. Burnes joined the research initiative to gain a deeper understanding of rheumatic diseases and the critical connection between chronic inflammation, a hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and cardiovascular complications. By exploring the intricate dynamics between rheumatologic disorders and cardiovascular well-being, the partnership seeks to uncover holistic care strategies tailored for patients facing both types of challenges.

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The work Dr. Burnes is engaged in emphasizes diagnostic cardiology through non-invasive techniques, alongside the implementation of effective non-pharmacological treatment strategies. Currently, Dr. Burnes' training encompasses a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to heart attacks, heart failure, coronary artery bypass grafting, heart valve repair or replacement, heart or lung transplants, angioplasty (with or without stenting), peripheral artery disease, pulmonary hypertension, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Her clinical interests are profoundly rooted in both the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease and cardiac rehabilitation. Through her innovative approaches and dedication to education, she aims to enrich the field of preventive cardiology, ultimately striving to cultivate healthier communities through both conscientious outreach and pioneering care strategies.

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