Tiago Peçanha

Dr. Tiago Peçanha is a Senior Lecturer in Human Cardiovascular Physiology at Manchester Metropolitan University's School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences. He holds a PhD from the University of São Paulo and has conducted postdoctoral research at prestigious institutions including the University of São Paulo and Liverpool John Moores University. His research focuses on neural regulation of cardiovascular responses to exercise, effects of physical activity in older adults and individuals with rheumatic diseases, and vascular health in autoimmune conditions.

• Education:
  • PhD in Sport and Exercise Science (University of São Paulo, 2017)
  • MSc in Exercise Physiology (Federal University of Juiz de Fora, 2012)
  • BSc in Sport and Exercise Science (Federal University of Juiz de Fora, 2008)
• Professional Memberships:
  • Fellow of the Higher Education Academy
  • British Society for Rheumatology
  • Physiological Society
  • American Physiological Society

Research Interests: Dr. Peçanha explores cardiovascular and cerebrovascular physiology, particularly in contexts of aging, rheumatic diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), and physical inactivity. His work addresses mechanisms linking exercise to reduced cardiovascular risk in chronic inflammatory conditions and investigates interventions to mitigate sedentary behavior's health impacts. Key themes include autonomic nervous system regulation, vascular function, and translational approaches to improving patient outcomes.

Grants & Projects: He leads projects funded by Health Innovation Manchester (£9,989), Lupus UK (£24,992), Alzheimer’s UK (£3,318), and the Royal Society (£20,000). These focus on physical activity interventions for lupus patients, cognitive dysfunction in systemic lupus erythematosus, and cerebrovascular responses to exercise in aging populations.

• Teaching: Delivers modules in Sport and Exercise Physiology, Health and Exercise Physiology, and Introduction to Physiology at undergraduate levels. Supervises BSc and MSc dissertation students.
• Labs/Teams: Collaborates with the Manchester Institute of Sport and the Health and Exercise Science Research Group, advancing clinical and applied research in rheumatology and cardiovascular health.