John O'Hara

Professor John O'Hara serves as Professor of Sport and Exercise Physiology and Director of the Centre for Human Performance at Leeds Beckett University's Carnegie School of Sport. An accredited sport scientist with BASES for over 20 years, he leads the Health and Performance Hub while maintaining active research and teaching roles across undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

His educational background includes:

• Bachelor's degree in Sport and Exercise Science from Leeds Beckett University
• Master's degree in Sport and Exercise Science from Leeds Beckett University
• PhD from Leeds Beckett University supervised by Professor Roderick King, investigating pre-exercise carbohydrate ingestion effects on cyclists

Research focuses on human performance optimization through carbohydrate metabolism studies, environmental adaptation mechanisms (altitude/heat), and athlete performance enhancement. His work integrates laboratory and field research with defense, sports, and commercial applications, evidenced by projects like Olympic heat acclimation strategies and Himalayan mountaineering physiology studies.

Professional recognition includes:

• Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy

He has supervised over 17 PhD completions and secured substantial research funding from:

• Defence Science and Technology Laboratory
• Football Association
• Nutrition-focused commercial companies
• Defence Medical Services

As Centre Director, he oversees the Centre for Human Performance conducting high-impact research including the British Services Dhaulagiri Medical Research Expedition, Expedition Himalayan Venture 18 with RAFMA, and rugby performance analytics through Carnegie Applied Rugby Research.