Karen Birch

Professor Karen Birch is the Executive Dean and Professor of Exercise Science at the University of Leeds, affiliated with the School of Biomedical Sciences. Her academic journey includes a BSc (Hons) in Movement Science from Liverpool University (1990) and a PhD in Exercise Physiology from Liverpool John Moores University (1995). She has held academic roles at Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Leeds, advancing to her current position in 2017. Her research focuses on endothelial function, female reproductive hormones, and exercise interventions targeting cardiovascular health and menopause-related risks. Collaborations include institutions like the Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular Medicine and the University of Sheffield.

Her research employs advanced techniques such as MRI, echocardiography, and flow cytometry to study vascular health, exercise-induced shear stress, and hormone-cardiovascular interactions. Notable projects include investigating interval training’s impact on postmenopausal women and exploring omega-3 fatty acids’ effects on diabetes. Funded by organizations like the British Heart Foundation and Heart Research UK, her work highlights exercise as a therapeutic tool for chronic diseases.

Her scientific contributions include over 150 peer-reviewed articles, with recent studies emphasizing vascular health interventions, chronic disease management, and aging populations. Awards include Fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine. She teaches across exercise physiology programs and leads interdisciplinary research initiatives, including the REACH programme for care home residents’ physical activity.