معرفی
Dr. Emma Davies is a Senior Lecturer in Equestrian Performance and Programme Manager for the BSc (Hons) Equestrian Sports Science course at Hartpury University. She has been a key member of the Equine Department since 2013 and holds a PhD in progress at the University of the West of England (UWE), focusing on the psychological responses to injury in horseracing staff. She also serves as an External Examiner for equine programs at ARU Writtle and previously at Hadlow College, University of Greenwich.
Her educational background includes a BSc (Hons) in Equine Sports Science, an MSc in Equine Science, and a PGCHE in Teaching & Learning in Higher Education, all from UWE. She is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and a Professional Member of the British Association of Sport & Exercise Sciences (BASES).
Emma's research centers on the psychology of injury in equestrian sports, rider performance, occupational health in horseracing, and sleep practices in elite riders. Her work bridges academic inquiry with practical application through partnerships with Racing Welfare and outreach at the Cheltenham Science Festival. She regularly supervises undergraduate and postgraduate dissertations in equestrian performance and psychology.
The recent publications (2023–2025) reflect a strong focus on rider and staff wellbeing, injury perception, and psychological resilience. Themes include pain in recreational riders, sleep optimization for performance, and cultural barriers to seeking help after occupational injury in racing. These works demonstrate a consistent interdisciplinary approach combining sport psychology, equine science, and occupational health.
- HE Inspirational Lecturer Award (2018)
- Top Student - MSc Equine Science (2013)
Emma actively supervises student research and accepts PhD candidates interested in the psychology of athletic or occupational injuries in equestrian and horseracing industries. She has collaborated on grants and knowledge exchange projects with Racing Welfare and has contributed to public understanding of science through media appearances and workshops. Her outreach includes organizing fitness workshops for Pony Club members and presenting at British Dressage training events.
She leads research collaborations with industry partners and contributes to academic quality through external examination roles. Her work with the Cheltenham Science Festival includes co-presenting anatomy workshops and large animal dissection demonstrations, enhancing public engagement with equine science.
