Jørgen Jensen serves as Professor in the Department of Physical Performance at the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, where he leads the Biochemical Laboratory and heads the biochemistry research group. His responsibilities encompass teaching, research supervision, and service on the Committee for Postgraduate Education. Dr. Jensen earned his PhD from the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences in 1993, followed by postdoctoral training at the University of Oslo. Prior to his current position, he conducted research at the National Institute of Occupational Health from 1997 to 2009, investigating skeletal muscle glucose uptake and glycogen metabolism mechanisms. His research centers on carbohydrate metabolism regulation during and after exercise, with particular emphasis on caffeine's ergogenic effects, protein supplementation impacts on endurance performance, and exercise-induced insulin sensitivity changes. This work bridges exercise physiology, biochemistry, and nutritional science to advance understanding of human performance and metabolic health. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals strong focus on nutritional interventions (protein/carbohydrate supplementation, fasting), metabolic adaptation to exercise, and biochemical monitoring through nitrogen excretion and proteome analysis. His studies frequently employ human trials with endurance athletes and controlled metabolic testing. No scientific awards were documented in the provided materials. As an educator, Jensen holds academic responsibility for Metabolism (THP204) and Metabolic Regulation (MA408) courses, delivering lectures on metabolic processes. His supervision activities include mentoring graduate students within the biochemistry research group framework. The biochemistry research group operates the university's Biochemical Laboratory, conducting studies on exercise-induced metabolic responses, nutrient-exercise interactions, and molecular mechanisms underlying performance adaptations.
Lone Friis Thing is Professor and Head of the Department of Sport and Social Sciences at the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences (NIH) in Oslo. She holds a master's degree (5-years) in Humanities and Social Sport Sciences and Biology (4 years) from the University of Copenhagen, where she also earned her PhD from the Department of Sociology. With extensive experience in academic leadership, she previously served as Head of the section 'Sport, Individual & Society' and Head of studies for graduate programs at the University of Copenhagen. Her research focuses on health promotion and prevention in relation to sport and physical activity, particularly examining heart disease and lifestyle interventions for the elderly, as well as innovative cultural strategies for organizational changes in Danish Upper Secondary Schools. Drawing inspiration from Norbert Elias's figurational sociology and Goffman's interaction theory, her work specifically addresses body and emotions within sports contexts. Her recent publications reveal consistent thematic patterns spanning sports sociology, health promotion, gender studies, and educational reform. Thing has served on the board of Norwegian School of Sport Sciences (NIH) in Oslo (2017-2019) and has been an external examiner for sport science and Public Health educations in Denmark. She brings significant expertise in managing academic mergers and organizational changes, with five years of experience as a section leader at NEXS, University of Copenhagen and ten years as study leader for master's degree programs in Sports at the Science Faculty. Her current research projects include The Doctoral Training Network in Sport Ethics and Integrity (DAiSI), reflecting her ongoing commitment to advancing ethical considerations in sports science. She has contributed to international journals such as the European Journal of Sport Science (EJSS) and the International Review for the Sociology of Sport (IRSS), demonstrating her international scholarly impact.
Truls Raastad is a Professor at the Institute of Physical Performance , Norwegian School of Sport Sciences. He leads the research group The Muscle Group , focusing on muscular adaptation to training , strength training methodologies , and sports nutrition . His academic work spans exercise physiology , muscle physiology , and football/soccer research . Doctorate in Sports Physiology (Recovery and Adaptations to Strength Training) Consultant at Olympiatoppen's nutrition department Former football player and coach His research explores post-exercise recovery mechanisms , muscle damage and repair , and exercise interventions during cancer treatment . Recent publications investigate: Aerobic training effects in breast cancer survivors Muscle fiber adaptations to high-intensity resistance exercise Myonuclear retention after tendon injuries Exercise intensity comparisons in adolescent athletes Teaching includes human physiology , exercise physiology , and sports nutrition (course THP102). His work bridges laboratory research and applied sports practice , with specific interest in blood flow restriction training and recovery strategies .
Dr. Simone Tomaz Joubert is a Lecturer in Exercise Physiology at the University of Stirling, working within the Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport. Her research focuses on physical activity interventions across different age groups, with particular emphasis on digital health solutions and intergenerational approaches. Her primary research interests include: Physical activity interventions for school-aged children Digital technology applications in exercise physiology Physical activity programs for older adults Sports-based reminiscence techniques Intergenerational physical activity initiatives Dr. Joubert is actively involved with the Stirling Physical Activity Research, Knowledge & Learning Exchange (SPARKLE), where she contributes to the 'Living Well' research theme under the broader Health & Behaviour research program. Her current work includes a Knowledge Transfer Partnership with Paths for All to develop programs increasing physical activity among Scottish secondary school pupils. Her previous research includes the GOALD (Generating Older Active Lives Digitally) project, a collaboration between the Universities of Stirling and Plymouth that explored digital technology delivery of physical activity and sports-based reminiscence in intergenerational groups. Dr. Joubert completed her PhD in Exercise Science at the University of Cape Town before joining the University of Stirling, where she continues to advance research in exercise physiology with practical applications across the lifespan.
Dr. Thomas Pollak is a Senior Clinical Lecturer at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN) at King's College London and an Honorary Consultant Neuropsychiatrist at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust. He has been affiliated with King's since 2004 and has held his current academic position since 2015. Pollak is a leading researcher in immunopsychiatry, with a focus on autoimmune encephalitis and its psychiatric manifestations, and co-runs a specialized clinic for patients with autoimmune neurological disorders at King's College Hospital. Dr. Pollak completed his academic training with a BA in Psychology from Corpus Christi College, University of Oxford, followed by an MBBS in Medicine from King's College London. He obtained his MRCPsych certification from the Royal College of Psychiatrists and completed an MSc in Clinical Neurology from University College London. His diverse educational background spanning psychology, medicine, psychiatry, and neurology uniquely positions him at the intersection of these fields. Dr. Pollak's primary research interests lie at the intersection of immunology and psychiatry, with specific focus on autoimmune encephalitis, particularly as it manifests as psychosis. He investigates the neuroimmunological basis of psychiatric disease, with emphasis on autoantibodies that cause autoimmune encephalitis. His work aims to improve early detection of autoimmune psychosis and elucidate brain mechanisms by which immune responses produce neuropsychiatric symptoms. He also studies immunological effects of psychotropic drugs, mental illness risk factors on immune function, infections in psychiatry, long COVID mechanisms, glutamatergic abnormalities in psychosis, and organic presentations in neuropsychiatry. Recently, he has developed research interests in the neuroscience and phenomenology of meditation and contemplative practices. Analysis of Dr. Pollak's recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on autoimmune mechanisms in psychiatric disorders, particularly focusing on autoimmune encephalitis and its psychiatric manifestations. His work spans clinical studies, systematic reviews, and innovative methodological approaches to understanding the immune-psychiatry interface. A significant portion of his recent work addresses the neuropsychiatric sequelae of COVID-19, reflecting the pandemic's impact on research priorities. His publications demonstrate interdisciplinary collaboration across psychiatry, neurology, immunology, and rheumatology, highlighting the transdisciplinary nature of modern immunopsychiatry research. Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Fellowship (2015) NIHR Clinical Lectureship (2019) Dr. Pollak actively mentors trainees and students, serving as a personal/pastoral tutor and dissertation supervisor on the MSc Clinical Neuropsychiatry program. He has led the King's Neuropsychiatry Meetings since 2015, described as the world's largest such seminar series. His grant portfolio includes the Wellcome Trust-funded Immune Mechanisms of Antipsychotic Treatment Response (IMAT) study, where he serves as co-Investigator and clinical lead. He also leads or co-leads several other research projects including ADAPT (investigating exercise interventions for rheumatology patients), a Rosetrees Trust project on long-COVID-19's effects on the brain, and the COPE-EMBRACE project on coping with stress after encephalitis. Dr. Pollak co-leads the King's Neuropsychiatry Research and Education Group (NREG) with Dr. Tim Nicholson, which serves as an interdisciplinary platform for neuropsychiatry research. He has established and co-runs a joint multidisciplinary clinic at King's College Hospital dedicated to assessing and managing patients with autoimmune encephalitis and other CNS autoimmune disorders, as well as a neuropsychiatry-led long COVID clinic. His research group employs neuroimaging and neuroimmunological methods to characterize the significance of autoantibodies in psychiatric conditions, with the ultimate goal of improving clinical recognition and outcomes for patients with immune-mediated neuropsychiatric disorders.
Manuel Delgado Fernández is a Professor at the Department of Physical Education and Sports within the Faculty of Sports Sciences at the University of Granada, Spain. His research focuses on the interplay between physical activity, sedentary behavior, and health outcomes in populations with chronic conditions like fibromyalgia and pregnancy, as well as in adolescents with obesity. He leads major projects such as BACKFIT, GESTAFIT, and the al-Ándalus project, emphasizing exercise interventions, genetic interactions, and quality-of-life improvements. Key Research Areas: Fibromyalgia, Physical Fitness, Sedentary Behavior, Cardiometabolic Risk, Pregnancy Health. Projects: Comparative effectiveness of exercise programs in fibromyalgia patients; longitudinal studies on activity and sedentary time; gamification for health promotion. His work spans clinical trials, epidemiological studies, and educational innovations.
Paulino Padial Puche is a University Professor at the Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Granada (Spain). His research focuses on resistance training adaptation under hypoxic conditions, neuromuscular responses to altitude, and sports performance optimization in elite athletes. He serves as Vice Dean of Teaching, Quality and Scientific Policy at the Faculty of Sports Sciences. Current office: Building H, Office 1.12 Tutoring hours: Monday/Wednesday 9:00-11:00 and 4:00-5:00 Research areas: High-altitude training effects on muscle hypertrophy and inflammation Force-velocity profiling in judo athletes Physiological responses to hypobaric vs. normobaric hypoxia Physical activity interventions for aging populations Recent publications (2021-2025) analyze: Mechanisms of systemic inflammation during hypoxia training Muscle power adaptations in elite judokas at altitude Metabolic biomarker changes in hypoxic resistance training Neuromuscular fatigue patterns under hypoxic stress Power training protocols for Olympic athletes Contact information: Phone: +34 958244362 Location: Carretera de Alfacar, S/N, 18071 Granada, Spain
Ismael Martínez Guardado is a faculty member at the School of Life and Nature Sciences, Universidad Nebrija, specializing in Physical Education and Sport. His research focuses on neuromuscular adaptations, hypoxia training, nutritional interventions, and cognitive-motor interactions. Education: PhD in Physical Education and Sport, Universidad de Extremadura (2019). His work bridges exercise physiology with metabolic health, examining: Muscle performance under hypoxic conditions Nutritional modulation of the gut-brain axis Acute fatigue effects on cognitive-motor function Technology impacts on childhood neurodevelopment Article trends emphasize hypoxia training, neuromuscular interventions, and dietary strategies for chronic disease management. He leads the BRABE Research Group (BRAIN & BEHAVIOUR) , integrating interdisciplinary approaches to athlete health and cognitive performance.
Rosina Inês Ribeiro de Sá Fernandes is an Assistant Professor at the School of Education , Polytechnic Institute of Viseu , where she has taught since 2004. Her academic journey includes a 2013 PhD in Psychology - Counseling from the University of Coimbra, a Master’s in Psychology (2009), and a Bachelor’s in Psychology (2003) from the University of Porto. She actively contributes to research in Psychology , Educational Sciences , and Social Education , with a focus on special education, child development, and elderly well-being. Education : PhD in Psychology - Counseling (2013), University of Coimbra Master’s in Psychology (2009), University of Porto Bachelor’s in Psychology (2003), University of Porto Rosina’s research spans interdisciplinary social sciences, emphasizing subjective well-being , physical activity , and social support . Her recent work explores aging populations, youth autonomy, and innovative pedagogical practices. She coordinates the Employability Promotion Office at ESEV and leads the Social Education degree program . Leadership & Projects : Coordinator, Link Me Up - 1000 ideas (2021-2022, COMPETE-funded) Researcher, IncluES+ (2020-2022, FCT-funded) Member, Department Council and Pedagogical Council at ESEV Her publications highlight collaborations with researchers like Emília Martins and Francisco Mendes, focusing on health education , well-being , and social innovation . Rosina also supervises master’s theses and participates in academic juries, bridging theory with practical socio-educational intervention.
Jessica D. Austin, Ph.D. , serves as a Senior Associate Consultant in the Department of Quantitative Health Sciences at Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, Arizona. Her research focuses on evidence-based cancer prevention strategies and implementation science to address health disparities in underserved populations. Ph.D. in Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences from The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston M.P.H. in Community and Behavioral Health from University of North Texas Health Science Center B.S. in Neuroscience from Texas Christian University Her work emphasizes community engagement to adapt and scale cancer care innovations, particularly through electronic health record (EHR) systems and breast cancer screening initiatives . Recent projects include the "ASCENT" Clinical Trial (funded by the National Cancer Institute) to improve cancer pain management through digitally-enabled interventions. Dr. Austin's publications highlight her expertise in implementation barriers , multilevel interventions , and equity-focused clinical trials , with a recurring focus on Hispanic communities and low-resource settings .
Patrick Jacob is a Professor of Public Law at the University of Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines (UVSQ), where he serves as Vice-Dean in charge of International Relations. He is affiliated with the Faculty of Law and Political Science and the Department of Public Law, conducting research at the Versailles Saint Quentin Laboratory public institutions (VIP). His academic work focuses on the intersection of traditional international law principles with emerging transnational challenges. Education: 2016: Associate Professor of Law 2010: Doctor of Public Law, Rennes 1 University, with honors and congratulations from the jury 2006: Auditor of the Public International Law session, The Hague Academy of International Law (Netherlands) Professor Jacob's research spans public international law with particular emphasis on international liability law, international investment law, and internet governance. His scholarly approach examines how established international legal frameworks adapt to novel contexts where state sovereignty intersects with private regulatory power. He investigates the evolving relationship between traditional state authority and transnational regulatory mechanisms, especially in digital governance and investment dispute resolution. His extensive publication record demonstrates consistent scholarly engagement with transnational arbitration mechanisms and their relationship to general international law. His annual reviews of investment arbitration decisions reveal patterns in how tribunals interpret international law principles across different contexts. His work on internet governance explores the normative power exercised by entities like ICANN, analyzing how private corporations develop regulatory frameworks that function as de facto global administrative law. Research Affiliations: Laboratoire CESDIP Laboratoire DANTE Laboratoire PRINTEMPS Laboratoire VIP (Versailles Saint Quentin Laboratory public institutions) Professor Jacob teaches Public International Law I (L3), International Economic Law (M1DIE), Investment Arbitration (MACI), and International Liability Law (M2 DIEDF), bringing his research expertise directly into the classroom across multiple levels of legal education.
Dr Wei-Ju Chang is an Honorary Lecturer in the School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing at the University of Newcastle , Australia. He also serves as a visiting Postdoctoral Fellow at Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) and maintains an active clinical role as an APA-titled Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist in private practice in Sydney. Education Doctor of Philosophy, Western Sydney University Master of Orthopaedics, Sports & Manual Physiotherapy, University of South Australia Research Focus Dr Chang’s research integrates advanced neurophysiological techniques to investigate the transition from acute to chronic musculoskeletal pain. His work explores cortical and spinal neuroplasticity, quantitative sensory testing, and the therapeutic potential of non-invasive brain stimulation—particularly repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)—for conditions such as knee osteoarthritis and low back pain. A complementary line of inquiry examines EEG-based biomarkers, including peak alpha frequency, as predictors and modulators of pain outcomes. Publication Trends Across more than 50 peer-reviewed outputs since 2015, Dr Chang’s articles cluster in three dominant themes: (1) systematic reviews and meta-analyses that synthesize evidence on neuromodulation and quantitative sensory testing; (2) longitudinal cohort studies that identify neurobiological predictors of chronic pain; and (3) interventional pilot RCTs that test adjunctive brain stimulation combined with exercise therapy. His 2024–2025 publications emphasize individualized pain prediction, prophylactic neuromodulation, and mechanistic TMS-EEG studies. Grant Support & Collaborations 2023 : University of Newcastle Pilot Funding Scheme (AUD $4,883) – Lead CI on mechanisms of rTMS-induced analgesia. 2022 : NHMRC Postgraduate Scholarship (AUD $105,437) – Lead CI on neurobiological transition to chronic low back pain. 2022 : CHMW Strategic Research Pilot Grant (AUD $9,783) – Co-I investigating brain biomarkers for chronic postsurgical pain. 2021 : ANZMUSC Seed Funding (AUD $20,000) – Lead CI combining rTMS with exercise in knee osteoarthritis. 2019 : Physiotherapy Research Foundation Seeding Grant (AUD $9,511) – Lead CI exploring neuroplastic mechanisms of quadriceps weakness post-TKR. Laboratory & Team Affiliations Dr Chang is affiliated with the Neuroplasticity and Pain Research Group at the University of Newcastle, led by Prof Siobhan Schabrun. Through NeuRA he collaborates on multimodal imaging and neurophysiology projects, leveraging state-of-the-art TMS-EEG and MR-compatible stimulation platforms.
Patrizia Proia is an Associate Professor at the University of Palermo, Department of Psychological, Pedagogical, Physical Exercise and Training Sciences. Her research focuses on exercise physiology, sports genetics, and neurobiological mechanisms linked to physical activity. She teaches courses in biochemistry, physiology of nutrition, and sports training adaptation. Current research on microbiome-exercise interactions Developing protocols for MS and Parkinson's rehabilitation Investigating genetic polymorphisms in elite athletes Exploring nutrigenomics and functional foods Recent publications analyze: Muscle regeneration through probiotic supplementation Impact of nanotechnological devices on pain management Epigenetic regulation of executive functions Bone health in gymnasts and cancer patients Role of gut microbiome in exercise response
Arturo Figueroa is a Professor at Texas Tech University in the Department of Kinesiology & Sport Management. His research focuses on arterial function in aging populations and cardiometabolic risk factors, with particular emphasis on hypertension, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. He also investigates the impact of resistance exercise training and dietary supplements on vascular health, especially in Hispanic communities. Education: Ph.D. in Physiological Sciences (Applied Physiology, 1999) from The University of Arizona M.S. in Sports Medicine (1985) from Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara M.D. (1979) from Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara His work explores associations between arterial function and muscle fitness metrics (mass, strength, performance) and interventions involving strength training and L-citrulline supplementation. He has been recognized with CONACYT's Researcher Level 3 distinction and ACSM Fellowship for his contributions to sports medicine and vascular health research. Current Teaching: KIN 3368 - Exercise Testing & Prescription Office Hours: Tuesdays/Thursdays 12:30pm-1:30pm or by appointment He is affiliated with the Department of Kinesiology & Sport Management and the Institute for One Health Innovation . Contact: (806) 834-5587, Room 125, Texas Tech University, 2500 Broadway, Lubbock, TX 79409.
Jacob Mota, Ph.D. , is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology & Sport Management at Texas Tech University. His research focuses on neuromuscular adaptations and muscle function assessment across diverse populations including firefighters, law enforcement officers, and athletes. Ph.D. in Human Movement Science (2020), University of North Carolina Chapel Hill School of Medicine M.S. in Kinesiology (2016), Texas Tech University B.S. in Exercise and Sport Sciences (2014), Texas Tech University Dr. Mota's work examines the relationship between chronic health conditions and musculoskeletal injury risk in occupational athletes, with emphasis on resistance training adaptations and muscle quality analysis. His Neuromuscular and Occupational Performance Laboratory develops evidence-based strategies for injury prevention and performance optimization. Recent publications analyze firefighter health standards, muscle asymmetry impacts on occupational performance, and technological advancements in muscle assessment. His research integrates exercise physiology, biomechanics, and public safety health metrics. Outstanding Mentorship of Undergraduate Students in Research – University of Alabama (2022) Apple Polishing Award – TTU Mortar Board (2023) Dr. Mota teaches courses in applied exercise physiology and advanced strength conditioning, contributing to Texas Tech's Kinesiology undergraduate and graduate programs.
