As a Professor of Applied Physiology at the University of Canberra, I lead research in exercise physiology, nutrition and performance, metabolic health, and the physiological stress response, using non-invasive methods such as heart rate variability and salivary bioscience. With 23 years of experience in the field, I have a strong background in physiology, human movement, nutrition and sport and exercise science. I am passionate about understanding how exercise and nutrition impact various physiological systems across different populations, and how to apply this knowledge to improve health and performance. I hold a Doctorate from Tshwane University of Technology (Exercise Immunology), a Master of Medical Science (Physiology) from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, and a Bachelors of Human Movement Studies (Hons) from Rhodes University. I am also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (NSCA) and have trained in Ketogenic Metabolic Therapy for metabolic health.

Research Interests

• Dysfunctions in the stress-response, inflammation and bioenergetic systems in mental illness: Targets for exercise and nutrition interventions.
• Immune/Inflammatory responses to exercise
• Monitoring disease, health and adaptation to exercise using non-invasive methods e.g. heart rate variability, salivary biomarkers, 
• Strategies to reduce severity of and enhance recovery from exercise-induced muscle damage
• Ketogenic Metabolic Therapy for metabolic health in chronic disease including severe mental illness