Karen Mickle

Dr. Karen Mickle is a Senior Lecturer in Biomechanics within the discipline of Exercise and Sports Science at the University of Newcastle. She holds ESSA Sports Science (L2) and Athletics Australia running coach accreditation. Her research focuses on lower limb biomechanics, particularly foot structure and function, footwear, and running biomechanics. She is internationally recognized for her work on ultrasound assessment of foot structures and serves as President of the Australian and New Zealand Society of Biomechanics and Secretary-General of the Footwear Biomechanics Group.

Education: PhD in Biomechanics from the University of Wollongong (2009) and Bachelor of Science (Honours) from the same university (2006).

Research interests include the biomechanics of foot function in aging, obesity-related foot issues, and injury prevention in sports. Her work emphasizes novel techniques like ultrasound imaging to study muscle and tendon dynamics. Recent studies explore footwear interventions for hallux valgus and the role of plantar flexor muscles in medial tibial stress syndrome.

Publications highlight her contributions to understanding foot biomechanics across diverse populations, including athletes, older adults, and children. She has secured over $461,000 in grants, including a Women in STEM initiative for mentoring girls in biomechanics. Supervised 12 research students (8 completed, 4 current) in areas like sports science, injury prevention, and foot health.

Current roles include course coordinator for Advanced Biomechanics and Biomechanics courses at the University of Newcastle. Her interdisciplinary collaborations span sports science, gerontology, and pediatric health.