# Sjaan Gomersall
**Source**: https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/7683
**Parent**: https://about.uq.edu.au/faculties-institutes/hmbs/schools-institutes-centres/qcops/initiatives
Associate Professor
# Sjaan Gomersall
Email:
: [s.gomersall1@uq.edu.au](mailto:s.gomersall1@uq.edu.au)
Phone:
: [+61 7 344 36146](tel:+61 7 344 36146)
## Positions
Affiliate of Queensland Digital Health Centre
: Queensland Digital Health Centre
: Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences
Affiliate of Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation
: Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation
: Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences
Affiliate of Centre for Neurorehabilitation, Ageing and Balance Research
: Centre for Neurorehabilitation, Ageing and Balance Research
: Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences
Principal Research Fellow
: School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences
: Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences
Associate Professor
: School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
: Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences
## Overview
### Background
Associate Professor Sjaan Gomersall is Associate Director and Principal Research Fellow at the [Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation](https://hw.qld.gov.au/blog/health-and-wellbeing-centre-for-research-innovation-launched/) at School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences and a Teaching and Research academic in Physiotherapy at the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at The University of Queensland. Established in 2022, the Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation (HWCRI) is a collaborative, co-funded research centre by The University of Queensland and Health and Wellbeing Queensland. The HWCRI combines world class research expertise in physical activity, nutrition and health at The University of Queensland, with the reach and capacity of Health and Wellbeing Queensland to integrate, deliver and evaluate evidence-based programs that provide scalable, equitable access to improve the health and wellbeing of all Queenslanders (and beyond).
Associate Professor Gomersall is an expert in physical activity, sedentary behaviour and health. Her research has focused on understanding, measuring and influencing physical activity and sedentary behaviour using a variety of methods and with a range of populations, with a focus on adults, the prevention and management of chronic disease and physical activity promotion in healthcare settings. Sjaan has a strong track record for multi-disciplinary collaborations and industry partnerships, with specific expertise in partnering with healthcare organisations to build capacity in research and physical activity behaviour change, to evaluate the impact of healthcare services and to co-design and test innovative solutions to gaps in service delivery. Dr Gomersall is a nationally and internally recognised leader in physical activity and health. She is the President of the [International Society for Physical Activity and Health](https://ispah.org/), Co-Lead and co-founder of the [Physical Activity in Healthcare Special Interest Group](https://aspactivity.org/special-interest-groups/physical-activity-in-healthcare-sig/) for the Asia-Pacific Society for Physical Activity, a Consultant for Physical Activity for the World Health Organisation and an Associate Editor for the [Journal of Activity, Sedentary and Sleep Behaviours](https://jassb.biomedcentral.com/).
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### Availability
Associate Professor Sjaan Gomersall is:
: Available for supervision
: Media expert
### Fields of research
[Biomedical and Clinical Sciences](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/search?research-field=4760)
[Exercise physiology](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/search?research-field=6318)
[Sports science and exercise](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/search?research-field=4986)
### Qualifications
- Doctor of Philosophy, University of South Australia
### Research interests
- #### Physical activity and health
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- #### Measurement of physical activity and sedentary behaviour
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- #### Health and behaviour change in first year university students
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- #### Effectiveness of new generation eHealth trackers in improving physical activity behaviours
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## Works
[Search Professor Sjaan Gomersall’s works on UQ eSpace](http://espace.library.uq.edu.au/list/author_id/97892)
[All
(171)](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts-publication/7683/all)
[Journal Article
(129)](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts-publication/7683/4748)
[Other Outputs
(9)](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts-publication/7683/4749)
[Conference Publication
(30)](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts-publication/7683/4751)
[Book Chapter
(3)](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts-publication/7683/4752)
2026
Journal Article
##### Social determinants of depression and anxiety symptoms in undergraduate university students in Australia; Findings from The UNIversity student’s LIFEstyle and Mental Health Study (UNILIFE-M)
Knapp, Alison, Burrows, Tracy, Gomersall, Sjaan, Schuch, Felipe, Teychenne, Megan, Torres, Susan Jane, O’Neil, Adrienne, Farrer, Louise M., White, Rhiannon L, Rosenbaum, Simon, Tornquist, Debora, Waclawovsky, Aline J, Leigh, Lucy and Hutchesson, Melinda (2026). Social determinants of depression and anxiety symptoms in undergraduate university students in Australia; Findings from The UNIversity student’s LIFEstyle and Mental Health Study (UNILIFE-M). Mental Health and Prevention, 41 200471, 200471. doi: 10.1016/j.mhp.2025.200471
[Social determinants of depression and anxiety symptoms in undergraduate university students in Australia; Findings from The UNIversity student’s LIFEstyle and Mental Health Study (UNILIFE-M)](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:83d1e73)
2026
Journal Article
##### Do fixed or personalised sit-stand desk ratios improve lower back pain? A randomised trial
Brakenridge, Charlotte L., Johnston, Venerina, Andrews, Nicole E., Gomersall, Sjaan R., Russell, Trevor and Smith, Michelle D. (2026). Do fixed or personalised sit-stand desk ratios improve lower back pain? A randomised trial. Applied Ergonomics, 131 104670, 104670. doi: 10.1016/j.apergo.2025.104670
[Do fixed or personalised sit-stand desk ratios improve lower back pain? A randomised trial](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:7b8806d)
2026
Journal Article
##### Examining the Effects of Mindful–Movement Interventions on Social, Emotional and Cognitive Outcomes in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Harrison, Zoe, Bourke, Matthew and Gomersall, Sjaan R. (2026). Examining the Effects of Mindful–Movement Interventions on Social, Emotional and Cognitive Outcomes in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis. Child: Care, Health and Development, 52 (1) e70226, 1-19. doi: 10.1111/cch.70226
[Examining the Effects of Mindful–Movement Interventions on Social, Emotional and Cognitive Outcomes in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:e9a7de5)
2025
Journal Article
##### The political declaration of the fourth united nations high-level meeting on noncommunicable diseases and mental health—implications for physical activity promotion
Milton, Karen, Salvo, Deborah and Gomersall, Sjaan R. (2025). The political declaration of the fourth united nations high-level meeting on noncommunicable diseases and mental health—implications for physical activity promotion. Journal of Physical Activity & Health, 1-2. doi: 10.1123/jpah.2025-0895
[The political declaration of the fourth united nations high-level meeting on noncommunicable diseases and mental health—implications for physical activity promotion](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:494709d)
2025
Journal Article
##### Support needs assessment tool for people with disability wanting to participate in sport and exercise (SNAT-SE): Usability and acceptability testing
Hill, Jessica, Clanchy, Kelly, Trost, Stewart, Fleming, Jennifer, Beckman, Emma, Tweedy, Sean, Dutia, Iain and Gomersall, Sjaan (2025). Support needs assessment tool for people with disability wanting to participate in sport and exercise (SNAT-SE): Usability and acceptability testing. JSAMS Plus, 6 100111, 1-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jsampl.2025.100111
[Support needs assessment tool for people with disability wanting to participate in sport and exercise (SNAT-SE): Usability and acceptability testing](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:5f8dc78)
2025
Conference Publication
##### Physical activity environments and behaviours in Outside School Hours Care
Stylianou, Michalis, Woodforde, James, Duncombe, Stephanie, Thomas, George, Lee, Jessica, Hill, Jessica and Gomersall, Sjaan (2025). Physical activity environments and behaviours in Outside School Hours Care. Asia-Pacific Society for Physical Activity, Newcastle, NSW Australia, 25-27 November 2025.
[Physical activity environments and behaviours in Outside School Hours Care](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:bace8e4)
2025
Journal Article
##### The role of lifestyle factors in type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents: a systematic review
Fortnum, Kathryn, Thomas, George, Too, Kiara, Tam, Athena, Tilley, Kate, Cairney, John, Healy, Genevieve N. and Gomersall, Sjaan (2025). The role of lifestyle factors in type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents: a systematic review. BMC Public Health, 25 (1) 3675, 1-11. doi: 10.1186/s12889-025-23767-0
[The role of lifestyle factors in type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents: a systematic review](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:bc81e03)
2025
Journal Article
##### Bone health in autistic children: evidence from a population-representative Australian Cohort Study
O'Flaherty, Martin, Gomersall, Sjaan, Hill, Jessica, Fortnum, Kathryn, Bourke, Matthew, Cairney, John, Munns, Craig, Simm, Peter and Erlandson, Marta (2025). Bone health in autistic children: evidence from a population-representative Australian Cohort Study. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. doi: 10.1007/s10803-025-07051-z
[Bone health in autistic children: evidence from a population-representative Australian Cohort Study](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:a33efdb)
2025
Journal Article
##### Physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep in sexual and gender minority adults: a systematic review with meta-analysis
Ross, Megan, Stylianou, Michalis, Simmich, Joshua, Duncombe, Stephanie, Fortnum, Kathryn, Perales Perez, Francisco and Gomersall, Sjaan (2025). Physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep in sexual and gender minority adults: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 22 (12), 1478-1494. doi: 10.1123/jpah.2024-0659
[Physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep in sexual and gender minority adults: a systematic review with meta-analysis](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:3c8a6a9)
2025
Journal Article
##### Healthcare service utilisation across continuum of care for type 2 diabetes among culturally and linguistically diverse populations: a systematic review
Rahman, Mahfuzur, Khatri, Resham B., Gomersall, Sjaan, Hossian, Mosharop and Khan, Asaduzzaman (2025). Healthcare service utilisation across continuum of care for type 2 diabetes among culturally and linguistically diverse populations: a systematic review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 22 (8) 1279, 1-19. doi: 10.3390/ijerph22081279
[Healthcare service utilisation across continuum of care for type 2 diabetes among culturally and linguistically diverse populations: a systematic review](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:9d0adaf)
2025
Journal Article
##### Association between 24-h movement behaviors and mental health in children and adolescents: a systematic review and compositional data meta-analysis
Bourke, Matthew, Wang, Hiu Fei Wendy, Fortnum, Kathryn, Thomas, George, O'Flaherty, Martin, Mulcahy, Samantha K., Gomersall, Sjaan R., Alsop, Tahlia, Trost, Stewart G., Bruijns, Brianne A., Phillips, Sophie M., Vanderloo, Leigh, Tucker, Patricia, Hesketh, Kylie D., Kwan, Matthew Y. W. and Cairney, John (2025). Association between 24-h movement behaviors and mental health in children and adolescents: a systematic review and compositional data meta-analysis. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports, 35 (8) e70120, e70120-8. doi: 10.1111/sms.70120
[Association between 24-h movement behaviors and mental health in children and adolescents: a systematic review and compositional data meta-analysis](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:b2b39b6)
2025
Journal Article
##### Enhancing treatment outcomes after gynaecological cancer (ACUMEN): a randomised controlled exercise trial protocol
Chiu, Vivian, Boytar, Alexander, Cunningham, Brent, Skinner, Tina, Turner, Jane, Anderson, Debra, Khan, Asaduzzaman, Bailey, Tom, Porter-Steele, Janine, Young, Leonie, Tuffaha, Haitham, Perrin, Lewis, Garrett, Andrea, Goh, Jeffrey, Rose, Grace, Clifford, Briana, Gomersall, Sjaan, Korbie, Darren, Constantin, Nicolas, Li, Jackie and McCarthy, Alexandra Leigh (2025). Enhancing treatment outcomes after gynaecological cancer (ACUMEN): a randomised controlled exercise trial protocol. BMC Cancer, 25 (1) 1195, 1-11. doi: 10.1186/s12885-025-14298-3
[Enhancing treatment outcomes after gynaecological cancer (ACUMEN): a randomised controlled exercise trial protocol](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:6db0ef1)
2025
Other Outputs
##### Promoting mental wellbeing and recovery across the lifespan: a review of evidence
Fortnum, Kathryn, Bourke, Matthew, Thomas, George, Mulcahy, Samantha, Alsop, Tahlia and Gomersall, Sjaan (2025). Promoting mental wellbeing and recovery across the lifespan: a review of evidence. doi: 10.31219/osf.io/y7uwj\_v1
[Promoting mental wellbeing and recovery across the lifespan: a review of evidence](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:774cee1)
2025
Journal Article
##### Policies and Strategies to Promote Optimal Mental Health of Australian University Students: A Document Review
Hutchesson, Melinda, Burrows, Tracy, Couper, Lucy, Kavalec, Sienna, Knapp, Alison, Harrison, Zoe and Gomersall, Sjaan (2025). Policies and Strategies to Promote Optimal Mental Health of Australian University Students: A Document Review. Health Promotion Journal of Australia, 36 (3) e70066, e70066. doi: 10.1002/hpja.70066
[Policies and Strategies to Promote Optimal Mental Health of Australian University Students: A Document Review](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:86d40f4)
2025
Conference Publication
##### Do barriers, enablers, and support needs for screen use management differ by presence of siblings among Australian parents of young children?
Thomas, George, Duncombe, Stephanie, Gomersall, Sjaan, Morawska, Alina, Vergeer, Ineke and Biddle, Stuart (2025). Do barriers, enablers, and support needs for screen use management differ by presence of siblings among Australian parents of young children?. International Society of Behavioural Nutrition and Physical Activity, Auckland, New Zealand, 11-14 June 2025.
[Do barriers, enablers, and support needs for screen use management differ by presence of siblings among Australian parents of young children?](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:463b7c6)
2025
Conference Publication
##### Bridging the gap between research and practice through government and academic partnerships: opportunities, challenges and lessons learned from Australia and New Zealand
Thomas, George, Mulchay, Samantha, Gomersall, Sjaan, Richards, Justin and Andrews, Lara (2025). Bridging the gap between research and practice through government and academic partnerships: opportunities, challenges and lessons learned from Australia and New Zealand. International Society of Behavioural Nutrition and Physical Activity, Auckland, New Zealand, 11-14 June 2025.
[Bridging the gap between research and practice through government and academic partnerships: opportunities, challenges and lessons learned from Australia and New Zealand](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:b90c0ce)
2025
Journal Article
##### Description and evaluation of a co-design process involved in the creation of a workforce training package aiding sport and exercise professionals work with autistic young people
Hill, Jessica, Williams, Brittany, McKeown, Gilly and Gomersall, Sjaan R. (2025). Description and evaluation of a co-design process involved in the creation of a workforce training package aiding sport and exercise professionals work with autistic young people. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 1-16. doi: 10.1007/s10803-025-06912-x
[Description and evaluation of a co-design process involved in the creation of a workforce training package aiding sport and exercise professionals work with autistic young people](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:45d5c24)
2025
Journal Article
##### Comparing trajectories of sport participation for autistic- and non-autistic-youth: a group-based multi-trajectory modelling approach
O’Flaherty, Martin, Hill, Jessica, Bourke, Matthew, Gomersall, Sjaan, Tweedy, Sean and Cairney, John (2025). Comparing trajectories of sport participation for autistic- and non-autistic-youth: a group-based multi-trajectory modelling approach. Autism, 29 (10) 13623613251345345, 13623613251345345-2587. doi: 10.1177/13623613251345345
[Comparing trajectories of sport participation for autistic- and non-autistic-youth: a group-based multi-trajectory modelling approach](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:c047880)
2025
Journal Article
##### Active Start Active Future: feasibility of a behaviour-change intervention to reduce sedentary behaviour and promote physical activity in young children with cerebral palsy
Reedman, Sarah E., Kilgour, Gaela M., Gomersall, Sjaan, Sakzewski, Leanne, Trost, Stewart G. and Boyd, Roslyn N. (2025). Active Start Active Future: feasibility of a behaviour-change intervention to reduce sedentary behaviour and promote physical activity in young children with cerebral palsy. Physical and Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics, 45 (5), 745-768. doi: 10.1080/01942638.2025.2506061
[Active Start Active Future: feasibility of a behaviour-change intervention to reduce sedentary behaviour and promote physical activity in young children with cerebral palsy](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:6787660)
2025
Journal Article
##### Study protocol for Active Start Active Future: a randomised control trial of an early behaviour-change intervention targeting physical activity participation and sedentary behaviour in young children with cerebral palsy living in South East Queensland, Australia
Kilgour, Gaela, Reedman, Sarah Elizabeth, Gomersall, Sjaan R., Sakzewski, Leanne, Trost, Stewart and Boyd, Roslyn N. (2025). Study protocol for Active Start Active Future: a randomised control trial of an early behaviour-change intervention targeting physical activity participation and sedentary behaviour in young children with cerebral palsy living in South East Queensland, Australia. BMJ Open, 15 (5) e087697, 1-13. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-087697
[Study protocol for Active Start Active Future: a randomised control trial of an early behaviour-change intervention targeting physical activity participation and sedentary behaviour in young children with cerebral palsy living in South East Queensland, Australia](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:38a93b1)
## Funding
### Current funding
- 2026
EmpowerHER: Co-Designing a Culturally Responsive Lifestyle Program to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes after Gestational Diabetes
UQ Knowledge Exchange & Translation Fund
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/70986)
- 2026 - 2030
The Screen Use Taxonomy: a new framework for investigating the harms and benefits of screen time among children and adolescents
NHMRC IDEAS Grants
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/71571)
- 2025 - 2026
Digitalisation of the Support Needs Assessment Tool Sports and Exercise
Beyond Sports Foundation
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/66848)
- 2024 - 2027
Moving without fear when living with stoma: A consumer-led physical activity study (MRFF CLR Grant administered by Griffith University)
Griffith University
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/67585)
- 2024 - 2026
The effects of the Kids Heart Pilates program on children¿s motor skills, physical activity, and social-emotional and cognitive development: A pilot cluster randomized controlled trial
Kids Heart Pilates PTY LTD
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/64469)
- 2024 - 2026
Implementation and evaluation of a co-designed capability and capacity building training package to support autistic young people participate in grassroot sports.
AUS Department of Health, Disability and Ageing Information, Linkages and Capacity Building Social and Community Participation
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/64305)
- 2023 - 2027
Implementation and scale-up of a consumer co-designed physical activity promotion program for people with moderate-to-profound disabilities
NHMRC MRFF PPHR - Effective Treatments and Therapies
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/58317)
- 2023 - 2029
Small Steps for Big Changes: Implementing an Evidence-Based Diabetes Prevention Program into Diverse Urban Communities
NHMRC-Canadian Institutes of Health Research Healthy Cities Implementation Science Team Grants
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/57286)
View all 8 current funded projects
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### Past funding
- 2024
Moving without fear when living with stoma: A consumer-led physical activity study
NHMRC MRFF PPHR - Consumer Led Research
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/63006)
- 2024 - 2025
Donation to support research into the impact of physical activity on people who live with and beyond cancer
The Y Queensland
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/65408)
- 2020 - 2025
EnhAnCing treatment oUtcoMes after gynaEcological caNcer (ACUMEN): Using exercise to promote health after cancer therapy
NHMRC MRFF - Rare Cancers, Rare Diseases and Unmet Need
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/41691)
- 2019 - 2023
Identifying optimal sit-stand recommendations for the workforce
Office Ergonomics Research Committee Funding
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/38264)
- 2018 - 2020
Healthy transition navigators: Fostering students' learning and wellbeing to promote positive post-secondary transitions into higher education learning environments
Education Horizon
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/37260)
- 2018 - 2020
A sustainable strategy for improving school physical activity practices (Healthway Project led by Curtin University)
Curtin University of Technology
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/37991)
- 2017 - 2018
Physical activity in Australian schools: An iAIM case study school
Increasing Activity and Intelligent Minds (iAIM) Program
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/32632)
- 2017 - 2018
Using physical activity to enhance classroom engagement and learning: Stakeholder Perspectives, Recommendations, and Dissemination of Findings from a localised project
Education Horizon
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/32974)
- 2016 - 2018
Peer support: the key to exercise maintenance in cancer survivors? A pilot study (Tom Penrose Community Service Grant)
Exercise and Sports Science Australia Ltd
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/29632)
- 2014 - 2017
Evaluation of a community cycling program for teens: 'The Happiness Cycle'
Bicycle Victoria Incorporated
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/23402)
- 2014
Healthy universities: Changes in weight, health-related behaviours and psychological well-being in first year university students
UQ Early Career Researcher
[Open grant](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/project/21533)
View all 11 past funded projects
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## Supervision
### Availability
Associate Professor Sjaan Gomersall is:
: Available for supervision
Looking for a supervisor? Read our advice on [how to choose a supervisor](https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/how-to-choose-a-supervisor).
### Available projects
- #### [Preventing diabetes through taking small steps for big changes](https://hmns.uq.edu.au/project/small-steps-big-changes-implementing-evidence-based-diabetes-prevention-program-diverse-urban-communities)
Small Steps for Big Changes is a diabetes prevention healthy lifestyle program. Developed in Canada, our team has received [CIHR-NHMRC grant funding](https://hmns.uq.edu.au/project/small-steps-big-changes-implementing-evidence-based-diabetes-prevention-program-diverse-urban-communities) to examine the adaption and implementation of the program into an Australian context with clinical and community partners. We are currently seeking PhD candidates to be involved in this exciting project. Successful candidates will work closely with a range of stakeholders, including consumers, practitioners, industry partners and academics.
This unique opportunity would suit students with a background in allied health, health promotion, public health, health psychology, implementation science, or human movement studies. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential. Experience working with industry stakeholders and knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods and behaviour change would be of benefit. First Nations applicants are particularly encouraged to apply.
The Australian NHMRC investigator team includes [Professor Genevieve Healy](https://researchers.uq.edu.au/researcher/757), [Dr Ana Goode](https://researchers.uq.edu.au/researcher/1757), [Dr Sjaan Gomersall](https://researchers.uq.edu.au/researcher/7683) and [Professor David Dunstan](https://www.deakin.edu.au/about-deakin/people/david-dunstan).
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- #### Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation - multiple opportunities available
We currently have opportunities available for multiple higher degree research (HDR) students to join the Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation (HWCRI). In 2022, UQ received foundation funding from [Health and Wellbeing Queensland](https://hw.qld.gov.au/) (HWQld) to co-fund the creation of the Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation (HWCRI). In partnership with HWQld, HWCRI provides clinical and research expertise in in the fields of physical activity and nutrition with a population and preventative health focus, to inform HWQld’s program design, delivery and evaluation. HWCRI conducts innovative and novel high impact transdisciplinary research in community health and wellbeing across the lifecourse, to reduce health inequities and improve the health and wellbeing of all Queenslanders. The UQ HWCRI aims to translate research and evaluation findings into concepts and products for population level, state-wide implementation; and to build and sustain capacity in health promotion expertise by providing ‘real world’ training opportunities for undergraduate, post-graduate and higher degree research (HDR) students and fellows.
Successful applicants will be part of the School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences which is consistently ranked in the world’s Top 5 and is highly regarded nationally and internationally for its teaching, research and community outreach programs. The 2021 QS World Rankings by subject area ranked UQ first in Australia and second in the world in sports-related subjects. They will also be supported and conduct research in partnership with Health and Wellbeing Queensland (HWQld) which is a Queensland Government prevention agency aimed at improving population health and reducing health inequities by reducing the burden of chronic disease across the state. The health and wellbeing of the next generation of Queensland children is a key focus for HWQld and offers a once in a life-time opportunity to change the lives of the next generation where every Queenslander can live their best life, regardless of where they live.
This opportunity would suit students with a background in allied health, health promotion, public health, health psychology, implementation science, or human movement studies. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential. Experience working with industry stakeholders and knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods and behaviour change would be of benefit. First Nations applicants are particularly encouraged to apply. This is a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of this exciting new research centre and engage with industry partners and government and specific programs of research can be tailored based on the applicant’s interest and previous experience and expertise.
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### Supervision history
#### Current supervision
- Doctor Philosophy
##### Advancing knowledge in the measurement of movement behaviors in children with neurodevelopmental challenges
Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
[Dr Martin O'Flaherty](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/17886), [Professor Stewart Trost](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/934), [Dr Jessica Hill](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/29928)
- Master Philosophy
##### Time cost and fatigue associated with sports participation for athletes with and without severe to profound disability and high support needs, a comparative analysis
Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
[Professor Sean Tweedy](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/225), [Dr George Thomas](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/39132)
- Master Philosophy
##### Exploring the impact of community delivered exercise programs for cancer survivors.
Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
[Dr Tahlia Alsop](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/48407), [Dr Claudia Maddren](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/52022)
- Doctor Philosophy
##### Using conversation analysis to understand and quantify allied health professionals' dietary behaviour change talk with adults living with Type 2 Diabetes
Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
[Professor Genevieve Healy](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/757)
- Doctor Philosophy
##### Developing new approaches to pressure injury mitigation for athletes with spinal cord injury
Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
[Professor Sean Tweedy](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/225), [Associate Professor Emma Beckman](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/1536), [Dr Jessica Hill](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/29928)
- Doctor Philosophy
##### The role of sleep and physical activity in pain
Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
[Professor Paul Hodges](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/1050), [Associate Professor David Klyne](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/22631)
- Doctor Philosophy
##### Promoting LGBTQIA+ inclusion in primary care
Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
[Professor Lisa Nissen](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/5479), [Dr Megan Ross](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/29407)
- Doctor Philosophy
##### Physical activity of children and adolescents before the start of the school day
Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
[Dr James Woodforde](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/43709), [Dr Michalis Stylianou](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/11845)
- Doctor Philosophy
##### Towards improved access to and utilisation of healthcare services for type 2 diabetes among people with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds in Australia
Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
[Associate Professor Asaduzzaman Khan](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/1742)
- Doctor Philosophy
##### Developing and evaluating a student-led model of the Small Steps for Big Changes diabetes prevention program
Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
[Dr Ana Goode](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/1757), [Professor Genevieve Healy](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/757)
View all 10 current supervisions
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#### Completed supervision
- 2026
Doctor Philosophy
##### [Fit4Study: A Physical Activity Intervention for Undergraduate University Students' Mental Health and Wellbeing](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:bb017d8)
Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
[Professor Genevieve Dingle](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/30), [Associate Professor Emma Beckman](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/1536)
- 2025
Doctor Philosophy
##### [Physical activity behaviour change training for pre-professional health students to support delivery in clinical practice](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:52797cb)
Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
[Professor Genevieve Healy](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/757), [Associate Professor Roma Forbes](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/16059)
- 2025
Doctor Philosophy
##### [Movement behaviours of adults in the inpatient setting](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:85429ee)
Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
[Professor Sandy Brauer](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/736)
- 2023
Doctor Philosophy
##### [Health Behaviours and Educational Outcomes among Australian University Students](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:a2b12b1)
Principal Advisor
Other advisors:
[Dr Michalis Stylianou](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/11845)
- 2022
Master Philosophy
##### [The Effects of a Tailored Text Message Intervention in Cancer Survivors Participating in Exercise Rehabilitation](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:f5ae268)
Principal Advisor
- 2025
Master Philosophy
##### [Exploring subjective and objective outcome measures for the detection of gynaecological cancer-related lymphoedema](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:3d01983)
Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
[Professor Sandie McCarthy](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/24694), [Dr Elise Gane](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/20912)
- 2024
Doctor Philosophy
##### [Before-School Physical Activity: A Comprehensive Examination of Outcomes, Behaviours, Correlates and Stakeholder Perspectives](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:28e3360)
Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
[Dr Michalis Stylianou](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/11845)
- 2023
Doctor Philosophy
##### [Health-related behaviours of children of immigrant parents in Australia](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:fde07be)
Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
[Associate Professor Asaduzzaman Khan](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/1742)
- 2022
Doctor Philosophy
##### [Enhancing adherence to falls prevention exercise in older adults with a risk of falling in Singapore](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:29c694f)
Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
[Associate Professor Anna Hatton](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/2679), [Professor Sandy Brauer](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/736)
- 2022
Doctor Philosophy
##### [Promoting Physical Activity for Community-Dwelling Manual Wheelchair Users with Spinal Cord Injury](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:f5b3517)
Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
[Professor Stewart Trost](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/934), [Professor Sean Tweedy](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/225)
- 2021
Doctor Philosophy
##### [Morning versus Evening Exercise: Efficacy on Cardiometabolic Health and Associated Outcomes](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:2bcecce)
Associate Advisor
- 2019
Doctor Philosophy
##### [Physiological and psychological effects of an exercise program on children with chronic pulmonary disease](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:ef0906b)
Associate Advisor
Other advisors:
[Professor Sean Tweedy](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/225), [Professor Stewart Trost](https://about.uq.edu.au/experts/934)
View all 12 completed supervisions
View less
## Media
### Enquiries
Contact Associate Professor Sjaan Gomersall directly for media enquiries about:
- activity trackers
- physical activity
- university student health and wellbeing
#### Need help?
For help with finding experts, story ideas and media enquiries, contact our Media team:
[communications@uq.edu.au](mailto:communications@uq.edu.au)
## External profiles
- [ORCID](https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6808-0180)
- [ResearcherID](https://www.webofscience.com/wos/author/record/J-9665-2013)
- [Scopus](https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=36518718000)
- [Google Scholar](https://scholar.google.com.au/citations?user=lYDWJawAAAAJ)
## Social media
- [X](https://twitter.com/sjaan_gl?lang=en)
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