Dr Darren James

I was awarded my PhD from LSBU in 2012 for work in the field of foot and ankle biomechanics. I remained here as a research fellow to continue working on an externally funded footwear project and then later accepted a full academic post. I currently hold the positions of Senior Lecturer in Biomechanics and Course Leader of BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science; I am also Recruitment Lead for the School of Applied Sciences.
I am Research active in the field of Musculoskeletal Biomechanics.

My research focusses on the foot and ankle complex.
My PhD work investigated the adaptations to barefoot locomotion and within this work a concept for a mid-sole design was conceived and subsequently developed with external funding from a footwear company. The brand was 'FitFlop' and the concept became globally recognised, so much so that the impact of the research was regarded as 4* and highly commended by Main Panel C in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework.
My current research is investigating the mechanical properties of ligaments using ultrasound elastography. I am particularly interested in lateral ankle sprain and so the focus of this work is on the anterior talofibular ligament. The aim of the research is to develop a diagnostic method for assessing ligament integrity and ultimately reducing the number of injuries in sport.

Course Leader: BSc(Hons) Sport & Exercise Science
Member of the School of Applied Sciences Postgraduate Advisory Group

ASC-4-404 (Biomechanics 1) Module Leader ASC-5-435 (Biomechanics 2) Module Leader ASC-6-468 (Clinical & Applied Biomechanics) Module Leader ASC-7-509 (Gait Analysis) Module Leader