Susan Brown

Susan Brown serves as a Senior Lecturer in the School of Applied Sciences at Edinburgh Napier University, specializing in biomechanics and human movement analysis. She leads Innovation and Enterprise initiatives across the School while directing the Sports, Exercise and Health Science Research Group. Her career spans partnerships with major sports organizations including Scottish Rugby, Scottish FA, Arsenal FC, and Hearts/Hibs football clubs.

• Edinburgh Napier University (2007-present)
• Scottish Professional Development Board (CIMSPA) - Chair of Education sub-group (2020-present)
• BT Sport Scottish Rugby Academy (Edinburgh) partnership lead (2014-present)

Her research focuses on biomechanical analysis of movement patterns in sports and clinical populations, particularly in injury prevention and Return to Play protocols. Key areas include 3D motion capture applications for football/rugby injury mechanisms, spinal mobilisation interventions for MS/stroke patients, and talent development through work-based learning. She has pioneered partnerships that created purpose-built high-performance facilities and accredited PG Diplomas in Sport Performance Enhancement.

Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals strong emphasis on sports injury mechanisms (particularly in football and hockey), biomechanical assessment methodologies, and clinical applications for neurological conditions. Her work consistently bridges academic research with practical industry implementation through knowledge exchange projects.

Susan has directed numerous PhD/Masters projects embedded within professional sports clubs, including:

• MRes with Hibernian Football Club (2021-2023)
• Funded PhD studentship with Arsenal FC (2019-2022)
• Medical Research Scotland PhD studentship (2015-2019)

Her enterprise activities have secured over £250,000 in research funding from organizations including Arsenal FC, Scottish FA, and Medical Research Scotland.

She leads significant initiatives including the University Strategy for Sport, Dual Career Policy (2017-present), and Scottish Football workforce development (2020-present), working closely with the Scottish Professional Development Board to enhance work-based learning for student employability.