Andy Harland

Professor Andy Harland is a Professor of Sports Technology and Director of the Sports Technology Institute and Sports Technology Research Group at Loughborough University. He holds a BEng in Engineering Science and Technology and a Ph.D. in Optical Engineering from Loughborough University, with research collaboration at the National Physical Laboratory. His roles include leading academic research, industry partnerships, and overseeing sport-related technology innovation.

His research focuses on sports equipment design, biomechanics, and material science. Notable projects include developing soccer balls for UEFA and FIFA tournaments, analyzing cricket batting mechanics, and studying injury prevention through helmet design. He has led EPSRC/IMCRC-funded projects and collaborated with major sports brands.

Recent work explores SARS-CoV-2 transmission risks via sports equipment and airborne spread in sports like cricket, alongside advancements in gesture recognition for prosthetics and computational optimization of sports gear. His contributions span aerodynamics of sports balls, surface material analysis, and player performance metrics.

Professor Harland's expertise bridges engineering and sports science, with impactful applications in elite sports safety, equipment innovation, and athlete performance enhancement.