Research Impact In Sport

This team has delivered research that is reshaping international Paralympic sport through its influential partnership with World Wheelchair Rugby. By providing the evidence that informed rule changes designed to increase opportunities for female athletes, the team has driven meaningful improvements in participation, representation and competitive engagement at the highest level. This globally recognised impact exemplifies how Loughborough research can advance equity, innovation and excellence across world sport.

Professor Dominic Malcolm and Dr Kerry Glendon have demonstrated exceptional leadership in translating research and professional expertise into sector-wide impact through the development of the BUCS Best Practice Model for the Management of Sport-Related Concussion. By creating practical, evidence-informed guidance that supports the health, wellbeing and academic success of student athletes, they have shaped policy and practice across university sport. Their work is influencing concussion management nationally and internationally, exemplifying how collaboration between research and practice can create safer sporting environments and lasting benefits for participants.

Dr Jon Farmer has made an outstanding contribution to sport safety through pioneering research that has shaped international standards, policy and practice across multiple sports. His development of innovative testing technologies and methods has improved the evaluation and design of protective equipment, influencing governing bodies, manufacturers and standards organisations worldwide. From cycling and hockey to football, his work has translated cutting-edge research into tangible improvements in athlete safety.

Professor Duncan Walker and the Tudor Pro Cycling Research Partnership Team have demonstrated the power of research-driven innovation to deliver success at the highest levels of international sport. Through a close collaboration with Tudor Pro Cycling, the team has translated world-leading aerodynamic research into performance-enhancing race apparel used in elite competition. This outstanding collaboration exemplifies how cutting-edge research can shape best practice and deliver world-class sporting performance.