Alun Williams

Professor Alun Williams is a leading expert in Sport and Exercise Genomics at Manchester Metropolitan University, with honorary positions at University College London and Swansea University. His research investigates genetic determinants of elite athletic performance, injury resistance, and sex category eligibility policies in sports, particularly focusing on rugby and endurance running.

• Current affiliations: Manchester Metropolitan University (Institute of Sport), University College London (Honorary Senior Research Associate), Swansea University (Honorary Research Fellow)
• Research focus: elite athlete genetics, concussion risk, testosterone's role in performance, DSD/transgender athlete eligibility

His recent publications examine polygenic injury resistance profiles, concussion-associated gene variants, and ethical implications of genetic testing in sports. He has served as expert witness in the Caster Semenya sports arbitration case and frequently advises sports governing bodies on policy matters.

• Scientific awards: Fellow of British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Fellow of The Physiological Society
• Available for PhD supervision in human performance, physiology, or genetics with sport/exercise components