Stelios Psycharakis

Dr. Stelios Psycharakis is a Senior Lecturer in Biomechanics at the University of Edinburgh's Moray House School of Education & Sport, part of the Institute for Sport, Physical Education & Health Sciences (ISPEHS). He holds a PhD in Biomechanics from the University of Edinburgh, an MSc in Sport & Exercise Science from Leeds Beckett University, and a BSc in Sport Science & Physical Education from the University of Athens. He is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, qualified Physical Education Teacher, and Swimming Coach.

Research Focus: His work spans clinical biomechanics for health/rehabilitation (e.g., aquatic exercise therapy for chronic low back pain and older adults) and performance enhancement in swimming. Current projects include the AQUA STEPS feasibility study for aquatic exercise in fall prevention and the WATER project analyzing muscle recruitment in aquatic exercises. He chairs the European Network of Swimming Performance and advises on equipment optimization for sports/rehabilitation.

Teaching & Supervision: He teaches courses like Sports Biomechanics and supervises PhD students in clinical biomechanics and performance analysis. Current students focus on aquatic therapy efficacy, swimming injury prevention, and functional capacity in older adults. Past projects include biomechanical analyses of swimming kinematics and military foot-drill injuries.

• Grants: Led £350k AQUA STEPS (2023-2025) and £304k WATER project (2015-2017). Collaborated on €44k European Swimming Network grants (2021-2025).
• Expertise: Reviewer for 30+ journals, member of international conference committees.