Olympics

Dr. Fergal O'Hagan is an associate professor in Psychology. His research interests lie in the domain of work and health and, more specifically factors influencing occupational adaptation following the onset of chronic illness. Some of his current projects include the role of illness representations in recovery from occupational injury, health trajectories and coping in injured workers with permanent impairments, the role of acceptance and resourcefulness in occupational adaptation following disabling injury.

Winter Olympics - Milano Cortina 2026

Neuroscience of Motor Performance

Olympic athletes dedicate years to honing their skill, so why do they remain vulnerable to pressure? What distinguishes elite athletes at the Olympic level from others? Dr. Liana Brown, associate professor in Psychology and Kinesiology, specializes in motor skill learning and performance. She can offer insights and answer questions through her knowledge of neuroscience and psychology in sport. 

Dr. Moira Howes, associate professor of Philosophy, specializes in philosophy of sport and fitness, argumentation theory, and the role of emotion in reasoning. 

Professor Howes is available for comment on the values and emotional experiences we gain from participating in, and spectating, sport. She has a particular interest in philosophical issues concerning adventure sport and outdoor recreation.