Martin Toms

Dr Martin Toms is Associate Professor of Global Sport Education & Coaching and Head of Global Engagement at the School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham. He is an expert in youth sport, talent identification and development, and sport education from international and socio-cultural perspectives, with extensive collaborations in India and with the PGA of GB&I.

Education:

• BA (Hons) Sport Science and English Literature, University of Surrey, 1993
• MPhil Youth Sport & Education, University of Brighton, 1997
• Cert Ed (Post-Secondary Education), University of Plymouth, 2000
• PhD Youth Sport Talent & Developmental Socialisation, Loughborough University, 2005

Dr Toms' research focuses on youth sport in international contexts—especially India—talent development, socio-cultural dimensions, grassroots sport, and sport education programs. His work emphasizes cultural and cross-cultural understanding in sport systems. He has edited key texts such as the Routledge Handbook of Golf Science and Sports Science in India: Practice and Perspective, and his recent publications reflect a strong trend in athlete development pathways, talent systems, and critical analyses of sport policy and practice globally.

Scientific Awards and Recognition:

• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)

Dr Toms actively supervises doctoral and postgraduate students on topics including talent identification in Indian sport, elite cricket development, and professional journeys in golf. He has secured research funding and consultancy projects in China and Europe and is an adjunct Professor at the University of Regina, Canada. He plays a key role in transnational education and has served as Emeritus Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Golf Science and co-editor of the European Journal for Sport & Society. He is also a board member of the World Scientific Congress of Golf.

Labs and Research Teams: While not tied to a specific lab, Dr Toms leads global engagement initiatives and collaborates with international institutions and research networks focused on sport development, talent systems, and educational reform in sport.