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Since 2010, our laboratories have had the capability of investigating central nervous system (CNS) responses to a range of exercise interventions. Specifically, we have an international reputation for quantifying exercise induced fatigue and stress, recovery and adaptation in athletic and clinical populations.

We assess CNS function and skeletal muscle adaptation to exercise, using sophisticated neurophysiological techniques (including transcranial magnetic stimulation [TMS], transcranial direct current stimulation [TDCS], & peripheral nerve stimulation [PNS]) to probe the brain-to-muscle pathway. We use range of force and electromyography (EMG) parameters to study responses and have the capability of measuring individual motor unit behaviour using high-density EMG. Haemodynamic responses are assessed using functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), whilst a deeper understanding of cortical structures and activation is achieved using functional and structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain imaging.    

The group routinely performs mechanistic research investigating the responses to eccentric, concentric, and isometric muscle actions along with the fatigue and recovery elicited following exercise performance or training interventions. We also research how female sex hormones affect neuromuscular function and then more broadly, how motor function is influenced across the female life course. From a clinical perspective, we are currently investigating neuromuscular responses following limb immobilisation and how Stroke and MS related symptoms affect neuromuscular function.

Collectively, this research group produces a sustained level of high-quality work and is one of the most active research areas in the Department.  The group regularly receives requests from researchers outside the UK for collaborative and exchange opportunities.

Academic Team

• (Research Group Lead)
•  

Postdoc / Research Assistants

• Dr Okan Kamis
• Dr Elisa Nedelec
• Dr Emma Squires

PGRs / Thesis Title / Submission Year

• Luke Scott / The effects and mechanisms of lower-limb cross-education during immobilisation and dual-tasking / 2027
• Padraig Spillane / Neurophysiology and plasticity across the female lifespan / 2026

PGR Alumni / Thesis Title / Submission Year

• Rosiered Brownson-Smith / Neurophysiological Assessments and Exercise Prehabilitation in Women with Breast Cancer Receiving Taxane-Based Chemotherapy / 2024

• Emma Squires / / 2025

• Elliott Atkinson / / 2024
• Oliver Hayman / / 2024
• Paul Ansdell / / 2020
• / / 2019
• / / 2018