Find Academic Supervisors

Chris DakinView profile

Associate Professor

• Vestibular Neuroscience
• Motor Control
• Postural Stability
• +3 more

Chris Dakin is an Associate Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Science at Utah State University. His research focuses on understanding how sensory information from the vestibular system contributes to movement control and perception, with a particular emphasis on postural stability, locomotion, and fall prevention. He holds a BHK in Human Kinetics and a PhD in Neuromechanics from the University of British Columbia. His postdoctoral work at Baylor College of Medicine and University College London explored visual and vestibular perception in human spatial orientation. Dr. Dakin's research interests include: Vestibular contributions to balance and gait Sensory integration in motor control Environmental factors influencing fall risk Neurological disorders affecting movement perception His recent publications emphasize real-world applications of biomechanical research, including stairway design modifications to reduce fall hazards, and the role of visual contrast in environmental safety. Teaching responsibilities include Biomechanics courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Dr. Dakin has mentored six graduate students in kinesiology programs since 2017. His work bridges neuroscience and applied biomechanics, with a focus on translating laboratory findings into practical solutions for improving mobility safety.

Richard FergusonView profile

Associate Professor

• Human and Exercise Physiology
• Sports Performance
• Health and Wellbeing
• +3 more

Richard Ferguson is an Associate Professor (Reader) in Human and Exercise Physiology at Loughborough University's School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences. His research focuses on enhancing human performance and health through exercise interventions, particularly in endurance sports and muscle physiology. He has collaborated with the National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine and has over 25 years of experience in Sport and Exercise Science. Prior to joining Loughborough in 2007, he worked at the University of Strathclyde and completed his PhD at Manchester Metropolitan University, with research at the August Krogh Institute in Denmark. Education: BSc in Sport and Exercise Science (University of Birmingham), MPhil (University of Birmingham), PhD (Manchester Metropolitan University). He teaches on undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Sport and Exercise Science. Research interests include exercise physiology, skeletal muscle adaptations, blood flow restriction training, and endurance performance modeling. His work explores how physiological factors like mitochondrial function and oxygen uptake influence athletic performance. Recent studies investigate novel interventions such as Tetraselmis chuii supplementation and the EFRT fatigue model. Professional activities include advising on cycling performance and participating in international research collaborations. He is an active cyclist himself, blending personal passion with professional expertise.

• Physical Activity and Diabetes
• Exercise Physiology
• Health Promotion through Physical Exercise
• +3 more

Massimo Bags is a Full Professor at the Department of Human Motor Sciences and Health at the University of Rome 'Foro Italico'. He currently serves as Director of the Department and leads research in the Laboratory of Exercise Physiology. His work focuses on physical activity's role in diabetes management, health promotion through exercise programs, ventilatory responses during exercise, and sport nutrition. He is particularly interested in cycling physiology and its physiological adaptations. Research Interests: Physical activity interventions for diabetes patients Ventilatory control mechanisms during exercise Nutrition strategies in sports performance Cycling physiology and training adaptations Muscle fatigability in metabolic diseases Teaching Responsibilities: Biomedical Issues in Health and Exercise (LM67I-1B) Physical Activities for Health and Efficiency (LM67-01) Preventive and Adapted Physical Activity (L22-08) Recent Research Trends: His publications (2017–2020) emphasize interdisciplinary studies combining exercise physiology with clinical applications, particularly in diabetes management. Key themes include ventilatory control modeling, muscle fatigue mechanisms in metabolic disorders, and supplementation effects on recovery. Collaborations involve clinical trials like the IDES_2 project assessing behavioral interventions for diabetes patients. Lab & Teams: Coordinates research in the Exercise Physiology Lab, focusing on translational studies between basic science and clinical practice. Active in international collaborations on sport science and public health initiatives.

• Oxidative Stress
• Redox Homeostasis
• Muscle Metabolism
• +3 more

William Duranti is an Associate Professor at the University of Rome "Foro Italico", Department of Human Motor Sciences and Health (SSD). His research focuses on oxidative stress, redox homeostasis, and muscle metabolism, particularly in the context of physical exercise and cellular aging. He investigates the effects of antioxidant molecules and drugs on muscle cells, with applications in understanding muscle atrophy and exercise-induced adaptations. Research Interests: Duranti’s work spans cellular and molecular mechanisms of muscle differentiation, polyamine metabolism in skeletal muscle, and the biochemical response to antioxidant supplementation. His studies utilize both in vitro models and in vivo murine models to explore these pathways. Recent projects include evaluating Tadalafil’s impact on redox status and studying Moringa oleifera’s effects on muscle cells. Articles Trends: His publications highlight a focus on exercise physiology, pharmacological interventions, and natural compounds. Research spans from molecular mechanisms (e.g., Nrf2/HO-1 pathways) to clinical applications (e.g., breast cancer and gut microbiota). Labs & Projects: Collaborates at the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Lab. Leads the international project “NO CLOT” exploring anticoagulant compounds from meloidi biodiversity. Engaged in teaching courses like Biologia e Biochimica applicate allo sport and Adattamenti biologici dell'attività motoria .

• Sports Sciences
• Neuromuscular Function
• Human Motricity
• +3 more

**Amandio Dias** is an Assistant Professor at the Egas Moniz School of Health (Egas Moniz Higher Education Cooperative CRL) since 2022. Previously, he held roles such as Invited Assistant Professor at the Polytechnic Institute of Setúbal (2020–2022) and Assistant Professor at the Piaget Institute (2017–2020). He also taught in Portugal’s public education system (2005–2022) and served as a researcher at the University of Lisbon’s Faculty of Human Kinetics (2013). **Education**: PhD in Human Motricity (University of Lisbon, 2018) with a thesis on *"Effects of the use of occlusal splints on neuromuscular function"*, awarded with distinction and praise. Master’s in Physiotherapy (University of Lisbon, 2008) and Bachelor’s in Physical Education (Lusophone University, 2005). **Research Focus**: Dias specializes in neuromuscular function, sports biomechanics, and occlusal splint therapy. His work explores applications in sports performance (e.g., judo, rugby, swimming) and injury prevention. Recent studies include validating smartphone apps for jump performance analysis and investigating mandibular position effects on athletic strength. **Publications**: Over 20 peer-reviewed articles, with a focus on occlusal splints, gait analysis, and sports technology. His 2024 study on smartphone app validity for jump height measurement highlights his interest in tech-driven sports science. **Awards**: Recognized for his PhD thesis with distinction and praise (2018). **Advising & Grants**: Supervised multiple master’s theses on topics like athletic performance, health literacy, and rehabilitation. Involved in interdisciplinary projects linking education, sports science, and public health. **Labs/Teams**: Active in biomechanics and sports medicine research groups at Portuguese institutions. Collaborates with organizations like Manz Produções for specialized exercise training programs.

Jill HigginsonView profile

Professor

• Biomechanical Engineering
• Neurorehabilitation
• Musculoskeletal Biomechanics
• +4 more

Jill Higginson is the George W. Laird Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Delaware, specializing in biomechanical engineering and musculoskeletal biomechanics. Her research focuses on understanding gait abnormalities in stroke patients and mechanisms of osteoarthritis, particularly knee cartilage degradation. She holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University, an MS in Bioengineering from Penn State University, and a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Cornell University. Her expertise spans biomechanics, gait analysis, and neurorehabilitation. Ongoing research explores motor control strategies post-stroke, adaptive gait training systems, and novel sensor technologies for biomechanical assessment. Recent work includes studies on functional electrical stimulation efficacy, exosuit assistance for shoulder tasks, and cognitive-motor interactions in healthy adults. Dr. Higginson’s contributions include advancements in predictive gait simulation frameworks and validation of carbon nanotube-based insole sensors. Her lab investigates human movement dynamics using computational models and robotic systems, with a focus on translating findings into clinical applications for stroke survivors and individuals with musculoskeletal disorders. She collaborates on interdisciplinary projects bridging engineering, neuroscience, and clinical medicine. Key areas of application include improving post-stroke gait recovery through adaptive treadmill protocols, optimizing joint stiffness regulation post-ACL injury, and enhancing wearable assistive technologies. Her work emphasizes both fundamental biomechanical insights and practical innovations in rehabilitation engineering.

Eric GreskaView profile

Associate Professor

• Biomechanics
• Sports Medicine
• Exercise Physiology
• +5 more

Dr. Eric Greska is an Associate Professor in the Department of Kinesiology & Applied Physiology at the University of Delaware’s College of Health Sciences. His research focuses on reducing lower-extremity injuries and improving physical performance through interventions, particularly in athletic populations and post-surgical rehabilitation. He uses technology to assess outcomes like range-of-motion and quality of life in patients recovering from surgery. Education: Ph.D. in Human Movement Science, Old Dominion University (2012) M.S. in Exercise Science, University of West Florida (2008) B.S. in Physical Education, University of West Florida (2006) Research Interests: Combining biomechanical analysis with clinical applications, Dr. Greska explores injury prevention strategies, neuromuscular training effects, and the biomechanics of athletic movements. His work emphasizes translating findings into practical interventions for athletes and aging populations. Publications Trends: His recent articles focus on jump mechanics, ACL injury prevention, and gait modification in post-surgical patients. He has investigated optimal training protocols for athletes and seniors, emphasizing kinetic analysis and functional outcomes. Teaching & Service: Teaches courses in anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology fundamentals. Engaged in community outreach and interdisciplinary initiatives through the College of Health Sciences.

Nicholas MurrayView profile

Associate Professor

• Neuroscience
• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanics
• +3 more

Nicholas Murray is an Associate Professor and Director of the Kinesiology Graduate Program at the University of Nevada, Reno. He is affiliated with the Institute of Neuroscience and focuses on neurological deficits, particularly in sports-related concussions and repetitive head impacts. His research explores concussion identification, recovery mechanisms, and biomechanical assessments of head impacts in athletes. He holds a Ph.D. in Neuroscience (2014, University of Texas at El Paso) and an M.A. in Kinesiology (2010, San Diego State University). Research Interests: Dr. Murray’s work centers on oculomotor and postural control in individuals with neurological impairments. He investigates dynamic postural control, vestibular/ocular motor screening, and the development of novel concussion assessment tools using technologies like virtual reality and instrumented mouthguards. His studies also address socioeconomic and racial disparities in concussion testing and the long-term effects of repetitive head impacts. Publications Trends: His articles frequently address concussions in elite athletes, emphasizing biomechanical and neurological markers such as smooth pursuit eye movements, postural sway entropy, and gait analysis. He also explores clinical milestones post-concussion and the utility of machine learning in diagnostic tools. Awards/Grants: No specific awards are listed, but his extensive publication record reflects sustained research activity. His work is supported by collaborations with institutions like the NCAA and interdisciplinary teams in sports medicine and neuroscience. Advising & Labs: Dr. Murray’s lab focuses on translational research in neurotrauma, with projects involving wearable technology and clinical biomechanics. He collaborates with athletic trainers and medical professionals to advance concussion management practices.

• Molecular Biology
• Exercise Physiology
• Biomedical Sciences
• +3 more

Björn Alkner is an Adjunct Associate Professor and Docent at Linköping University's Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences. His research focuses on molecular responses to exercise, muscle growth mechanisms, and clinical applications in biomedical sciences. He has contributed to studies on MYC protein function, resistance training guidelines, and miRNA analysis in human physiology. His work bridges molecular biology with clinical and sports-related medicine. Key research interests include exercise-induced molecular adaptations, extracellular vesicle biology, and the development of reliable diagnostic protocols for musculoskeletal assessment. While no formal student advising list is provided, his publications reflect collaborative work with international teams. No scientific awards are explicitly mentioned, though his contributions to high-impact journals indicate scholarly recognition.

A. MurgiaView profile

Assistant Professor

• Neuromechanics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Technology
• +7 more

Dr. A. Murgia is an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Medical Sciences (University of Groningen), specializing in neuromechanical adaptation in aging, rehabilitation, and neuro-musculoskeletal disorders. Their work develops rehabilitation technologies focused on improving quality of life for individuals with mobility impairments, particularly through upper limb prostheses and arm support systems . Research spans musculoskeletal modeling , virtual reality training , and biomechanical analysis Funded by EU Horizon 2020 , STW Netherlands , and Ministry of Economic Affairs Research interests include: Neuromechanical outcomes in clinical conditions Virtual reality for motor learning in prosthetics Muscle co-activation patterns in dystrophy Elbow joint biomechanics post-arthroplasty Biomechanical factors in clubfoot recurrence Wearable assistive technologies Article trends combine biomedical engineering , neuroscience , and computational modeling , focusing on prosthetic control , musculoskeletal disorders , and rehabilitation technologies . Contact: a.murgia@umcg.nl

Sonja de GrootView profile

Associate Professor

• Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation
• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Sports Medicine for Athletes with Disabilities
• +3 more

Dr. Sonja de Groot is an Associate Professor at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, affiliated with both the Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences (Department of Prevention and Rehabilitation) and the AMS - Rehabilitation & Development unit. Her work focuses on spinal cord injury rehabilitation, wheelchair mobility solutions, and optimizing physical activity for individuals with disabilities. Professional activities include roles as a Medewerker (staff member) at Stichting Handbike Events since 2017 and De Hoogstraat Revalidatie since 2024. Her research aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and well-being (SDG 3) and reduced inequalities (SDG 10). Research interests emphasize biomechanics of mobility devices, exercise interventions for spinal cord injury patients, and classification systems for para-athletes. She has supervised 12 PhD theses and contributed to over 200 research outputs, including methodological guidelines for spinal cord injury exercise studies. Key collaborations involve institutions like Loughborough University (dataset contributions on Borg exertion scales) and interdisciplinary teams focused on rehabilitation engineering and sports science.

• Biomechanics
• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Assistive Technologies
• +7 more

Alpha Agape is an Associate Professor at the Malaysia School of Engineering, Monash University. His work bridges biomechanics, rehabilitation engineering, and assistive technologies, with a focus on injury prevention, virtual reality for fall assessment, and soft robotics. He has mentored students in academic and industry roles and actively engages in community outreach for public education on sports performance and health. Graduate Certificate in Higher Education (2018) PhD in Engineering Sciences (2011) Bachelor of Mechatronics Engineering (2007) His research interests span biomechanics, cyberphysical systems for remote monitoring, and AI-driven injury prevention. Recent projects involve soft robotics for elderly support and AI-enhanced rehabilitation systems. Publications highlight trends in neural network applications for gait analysis, muscle activity estimation, and assistive device optimization. MUPA Supervisor of the Year Award, 2018 ITEX 2020 Bronze Medalist As an educator, he emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and research integrity. His external roles include leadership positions in the IEEE Computer Society (Malaysia) from 2013–2020. Current projects include fall prevention technology and soft robotics for object retrieval, reflecting his commitment to healthy aging and community well-being.

Xiaoxiao ChengView profile

Lecturer

• Adaptive Control Systems
• Human-Machine Interaction
• Robotics
• +5 more

Xiaoxiao Cheng is a Lecturer in Engineering Systems for Robotics at the University of Manchester's Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering. Previously, he held roles as a Research Associate at Imperial College London (2020-2023) and a Research Fellow at Stanford University (2019-2020). He earned a Ph.D. in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from The University of Melbourne (2019), M.Phil. in Mechanical Engineering from Tsinghua University (2014), and B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering from Beijing Institute of Technology (2011). His research focuses on intelligent autonomous systems and human-machine interfaces, integrating robotics, control theory, AI, and neuroscience. Key areas include adaptive control for human-robot interaction, sensory integration, intention detection, and multi-sensory feedback for applications in manufacturing and hazardous environments. He actively explores autonomous navigation and computational modeling to enhance human-machine collaboration. Recent publications emphasize haptic feedback systems, shared control in robotic surgery, and multimodal sensory datasets. His work contributes to SDGs related to industry innovation and infrastructure, and sustainable cities. Xiaoxiao Cheng welcomes prospective PhD students in robotics, control systems, and human-machine interaction. He is open to collaborations and can be contacted at Xiaoxiao.cheng@manchester.ac.uk .

Marquita SmithView profile

Assistant Professor

• African American Literature
• Hip-hop Studies
• Gender and Sexuality Studies
• +3 more

Dr. Marquita Smith is an Assistant Professor in the Department of English at Rowan University, part of the College of Humanities & Social Sciences. She holds a Ph.D. in English and Cultural Studies from McMaster University (2015), an M.A. in English from Rutgers University, Newark (2009), and a B.A. in Journalism (2009). Her research focuses on African American literature, hip-hop studies, gender and sexuality, and critical race studies. Her book project, Beyond the Hold: Black Women's Narratives of Care and Carcerality (University of North Carolina Press), examines how Black women's writing critiques carceral systems and envisions liberation. She has received awards including a Woodrow Wilson Career Enhancement Fellowship (2018) and an NEH Summer Stipend (2022). Her publications span journals like The Black Scholar , James Baldwin Review , and Postcolonial Text , with a special emphasis on Beyoncé studies, Janelle Monáe’s Afrofuturism, and representations of Black womanhood in hip-hop and literature. Her work bridges cultural criticism, feminist theory, and narrative innovation.

Liam HarperView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Nutrition
• Team Sports Performance
• +3 more

Dr Liam Harper is a Senior Lecturer in Physiology at Manchester Metropolitan University's School of Sport and Exercise Sciences. Previously, he held roles at the University of Huddersfield and completed his PhD at Northumbria University on soccer extra-time physiology. He is a BASES-accredited Sport and Exercise Scientist and Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. His research focuses on exercise and nutritional interventions for team sports performance and older adult health, including recreational football's role in combating non-communicable diseases. He contributes to the British American Football Association's Sport Science & Medicine Committee, advocating for Flag Football development. Research interests include optimizing performance through nutritional strategies, analyzing team sports demands, and promoting health via adapted sports. Notable work includes studies on fixture congestion effects, recovery strategies, and the physiological impact of prolonged exercise. He has authored over 50 peer-reviewed articles, with key publications in Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports , Sports Medicine , and Amino Acids . Education: PhD in Physiology (Northumbria University), prior roles at University of Huddersfield. Awards: BASES Accreditation, HEA Fellowship. Labs/Teams: Involved in sport science committees and applied research teams focused on soccer and tennis. His publications highlight trends in soccer extra-time physiology, nutritional interventions for recovery, and youth athlete development. Collaborations emphasize translating research into practical sports settings, with a focus on evidence-based practices in elite sports environments.