Can you tell us about your Sport and Exercise Science journey?

I’ve always had a keen interest in science, particularly biology and how the human body functions. I’m also a keen sportswoman and sports fan, so pursuing a degree and career in Sport and Exercise Science seemed like the logical fit. 

After graduating from BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science and MSc Sport and Exercise Physiology at Manchester Met, I began a part-time PhD alongside an Associate Lecturer role in the Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences. During this time, I was also employed as an Education Tutor at Stoke City FC, which involved teaching Sport and Exercise Science to their academy scholars. 

Now, I’m a Senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Physiology and teach Physiology across multiple degree programmes in the Department. For example, I teach a Foundations of Phyiology unit to students on the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science (Distance Learning) programme and Systems Physiology to postgraduate students. I’m also Programme Leader on the Distance Learning degree. This involves the day-to-day management and organisation of the course, supporting students with their learning and creating links with external organisations to promote routes into higher educatio for their athletes and employees. 

As a core member of the Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre at Manchester Met, I’m also involved in researching the genetic determinants of success in elite athletes, injury risk and musculoskeletal function, focussing particularly on elite endurance athletes and rugby players. 

How did your degree prepare you for your current role? 

My degree and the experiences I gained as a student at Manchester Met aroused my interests in Sport and Exercise Physiology, particularly working with elite athletes to enhance their performance and reduce injury risk. My studies also equipped me with the tools necessary to complete a PhD and progress to academia. 

What do you enjoy about your current role? 

I really enjoy the variety of being a Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader as every day is different. I also enjoy getting to know the students on the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science (Distance Learning) programme. They’re so enthusiastic about Sport and Exercise Science and are motivated to learn, despite many of them balancing their studies alongside full-time jobs and other commitments. 

I love how friendly and supportive the Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences is. Everyone is really approachable and always has time to answer questions, discuss new ideas or point you in the right direction. 

 and always has time to answer any questions, discuss new ideas or point you in the right direction.  We have a real mix of individuals with different specialisms, which work together really well.  

What advice would you give to students who aspire to a career in Sport and Exercise Science? 

Immerse yourself in your subject as much as you can. Be proactive in seeking opportunities to gain experience, whether it’s volunteering in research studies or assisting with lab data collection on elite athletes. Also, become a student member of the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences to keep abreast of contemporary issues and topics. 

What does diversity in Sport and Exercise Science mean to you?  

Diversity is essential to maximise the effectiveness of Sport and Exercise Science.  If everybody, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access and opportunities to fulfill their potential in Sport and Exercise Science, a wider pool of talented Scientists will emerge to contribute to discussions, research and practice, which can better serve society. 

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