Steve Draper

Prof Steve Draper is an academic dean and professor at Hartpury University's Department of Sport. He holds a PhD in sport physiology (2002) and has published extensively across sport, exercise, and health. His expertise includes oxygen uptake kinetics, athletic performance modeling, and the Clem Burke Drumming Project's impact on health and wellbeing. He has supervised 20 research degrees and is actively involved in applied sport science projects like the Olympic Boxing initiative and sleep interventions for athletes.

His research focuses on sleep patterns in athletes, music's cognitive impacts, and behavioral interventions. Recent studies explore early morning training effects on sleep and the effectiveness of targeted sleep programs. He has presented at high-profile events such as the Royal Society Summer Exhibition and Cheltenham Science Festival, contributing to media discussions on science and sports.

Draper’s work spans interdisciplinary collaborations, addressing topics like lameness in equestrian sports, classroom physical activity interventions, and neuroplasticity changes from drumming. His academic leadership includes roles in Research and Knowledge Exchange at Hartpury, emphasizing applied research and community engagement.