Dr Alex Ireland

My profile

Biography

My research focuses on work with human participants, examining the effects of mechanical loading on bones and joints across lifespan, from prenatal movements to exercise in old age. In addition, neuromuscular health and function in healthy and clinical populations of different ages.  In particular, my work has examined the key role that prenatal and infant movements play in skeletal development.

Academic service

Theme Lead, Musculoskeletal Function in Health and Ageing, Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre
Co-Chair, ECTS Academy
Associate Editor, Bone Reports
Editor, Journal of Bone and Mineral Research
Member, International Society for Children’s Bone Health Steering Committee

Interests and expertise

My research work examines how our skeleton adapts to physical activity and disuse across the life course.  This ranges from investigating how our fetal movements shape our bones and joints before joints, to assessing the impact of exercise in very old age on bone mass.  I am also interested in the influence of muscle on the skeleton, and conversely how neuromuscular function is affected in individuals with skeletal pathologies.  Finally, I have a broader interest in musculoskeletal development and ageing.

Research outputs