Darren James

Dr Darren James is a Senior Lecturer in Biomechanics at London South Bank University's School of Applied Sciences. He serves as Course Leader for the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science program and acts as Recruitment Lead for the School of Applied Sciences. His academic home is within the Human Sciences department, with strong affiliations to the Bioscience and Bioengineering Research Centre and the Sport and Exercise Science Research Centre (SESRC).

James earned his PhD in Biomechanics from LSBU between 2004-2012, focusing on foot and ankle biomechanics. His doctoral research led to the development of a mid-sole design concept that became the globally recognized 'FitFlop' brand, earning 4* research impact recognition in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework. His research interests center on the foot and ankle complex, with current work investigating ligament mechanical properties using ultrasound elastography, particularly focusing on the anterior talofibular ligament in relation to lateral ankle sprains.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on biomechanical assessment methods, muscle-tendon adaptations, and diagnostic techniques for sports injuries. His work spans sports performance, aging athletes, and clinical applications of biomechanics, demonstrating consistent output with 22 research publications between 2011-2022, including 5 in 2021 and 3 in 2022.

His notable scientific recognition includes:

• 4* research impact rating in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework for the FitFlop mid-sole design concept

James has supervised 3 students according to institutional records and teaches multiple biomechanics courses including Biomechanics 1, Biomechanics 2, Clinical & Applied Biomechanics, and Gait Analysis. His research contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and wellbeing through sport injury prevention and biomechanical analysis applications.

His laboratory work focuses on ultrasound elastography for ligament assessment, with particular emphasis on developing diagnostic methods for assessing ligament integrity to reduce sports injuries. His research group operates within the Sport and Exercise Science Research Centre, collaborating with external partners including footwear companies and sports organizations.