Adam Bruton

Dr. Adam Bruton is a Senior Lecturer in Sport and Performance Psychology at Brunel University London's Department of Life Sciences, part of the College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences. He joined Brunel in October 2022 after serving as Lecturer/Senior Lecturer at the University of Roehampton (2015-2022). He holds a PhD in Sport Psychology and BSc in Sport Science from Swansea University, along with an AdvanceHE Fellowship (FHEA).

Bruton's multidisciplinary research explores neurocognitive mechanisms in performance psychology, focusing on:

• Action simulation through motor imagery and observation to enhance skill learning, confidence, and performance under pressure
• Neurophysiological underpinnings of movement using TMS and neurostimulation techniques
• Immersive technology applications in sports training and rehabilitation contexts
• Team dynamics and collective efficacy development

His publication trends (2013-2025) reveal consistent focus on motor cognition, with recent work emphasizing:

• Corticospinal excitability modulation during combined action observation/motor imagery
• Virtual reality applications for motor learning
• Neurostimulation for cognitive enhancement
• Injury rehabilitation biomechanics in athletes
• Standardization of motor imagery research methodologies

Notable scientific recognition includes the AdvanceHE Fellowship. His extensive grant portfolio includes projects funded by the Waterloo Foundation, BBSRC, and Wellcome Trust, such as:

• VR-based fall prevention in children with DCD (£450k, 2025-2026)
• Prebiotic supplementation effects on athlete health (BBSRC, 2025)
• Interdisciplinary return-to-play protocols for rugby injuries (KESS Award, 2018-2022)

Bruton co-chairs the Research in Imagery and Observation (RIO) Group, holds Chartered Psychologist status with the British Psychological Society, and teaches undergraduate courses in sport psychology and coaching science. His lab investigates perceptual-cognitive training using immersive technologies and neurophysiological monitoring.