Email: sam.oxford@hartpury.ac.uk
Career Overview
I joined Hartpury University as Head of Department for Sports Coaching, Physical Education and Psychology, bringing more than 20 years of experience in higher education, sport science and academic leadership. I hold a PhD in Sport and Exercise Science, an MSc in Sports Science (Biomechanics), and I am a UKSCA Accredited Strength and Conditioning Coach.
My career has spanned teaching, research and leadership roles, with a particular focus on developing innovative curricula, supporting student success, and building strong connections between academia and industry. My research interests include biomechanics, cervical spine function, concussion, injury prevention and strength and conditioning, and I have collaborated with a range of elite sporting organisations across professional and Olympic sport.
Alongside my academic work, I have provided sport science consultancy to organisations across football, rugby, athletics, swimming and motorsport. I am passionate about creating outstanding student experiences and ensuring graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills and practical experience required to succeed in their chosen careers.
Teaching and supervision
- Sport and Exercise Science, Sports Coaching, Strength and Conditioning, and Biomechanics teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
- Module leadership and teaching in Applied Biomechanics, Strength and Conditioning, Research Methods, Human Movement and Coaching Science.
- Supervision of undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral research projects in sport science, performance, injury prevention and human movement.
- Director of Studies and PhD supervisor for research in concussion, neck strength, biomechanics and athlete performance.
- Personal tutor and mentor supporting student academic and professional development.
Research interests
- Cervical spine function, neck strength and injury prevention in contact sports.
- Concussion risk, head acceleration monitoring and return-to-play assessment in elite athletes.
- Strength and conditioning interventions for performance enhancement and injury reduction.
- Biomechanics of human movement, sports performance and swimming.
- Athlete monitoring and applied sport science in collaboration with elite sporting organisations, including England Rugby, British Cycling, British Judo and British Snow Sports.
- Physical activity, motor competence and athletic development in children and young people.
- Research-informed approaches to athlete health, wellbeing and performance.
See also...
Our partners & accreditations
