Deakin tops global list for sports science schools for third year running

The accolade marks the fifth time Deakin has topped the list since 2016, with consecutive wins in 2021, 2022 and 2023.

The Global Ranking of Sports Science Schools and Departments assesses areas including the number of times research work is cited by others globally and the total number of papers published in the top 25 per cent of journals in the world.

Deakin Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin said the award recognises sustained excellence in teaching and research.

"Deakin celebrates its 50^th birthday in 2024, so we are still a young university in the scheme of things, but the hard work and dedication of the team led by Professor Brad Aisbett, from the School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, and Alfred Deakin Professor Jo Salmon, from IPAN, has globally significant impact," Professor Martin said.

"The teaching, research and support teams, as well as the students and partners, work together to deliver the most innovative information to the community, and we are very proud of their efforts."

Professor Aisbett said it was hugely rewarding to be recognised in this way.

"We are focussed on cutting-edge research and world-class strategies that allow us to drive the agenda and education of issues pertinent to high-performance sport, including minimising the increased risk of serious health conditions through exercise and physical activity," said Professor Aisbett.

"We strive to build research capacity within our school and institute, whilst also ensuring that our students have access to authentic practical experiences, and work with our partners to deliver programs relevant to today's society."

The school's research performance is led by IPAN (which incorporates the Centre for Sport Research [CSR]), and the CASS Food Research Centre. IPAN, inclusive of CSR, focuses on the role of exercise and nutrition in improving human health and quality of life, preventing and reducing chronic disease, and enhancing human performance.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Alfred Deakin Professor Matthew Clarke said the research and teaching nexus at Deakin's School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences was based on the shared and constant focus on improving knowledge around nutrition and exercise.

"It is wonderful to be recognised once again as the best in the world in the field of Sports Science," Professor Clarke said.

"World-class research and our strong health industry and community partnerships help to shape local, national and global policies. The team is incredibly proud to retain the top position, ahead of some 300 international universities."