Dr Christopher McManus

Biography

Dr Chris McManus currently is a Lecturer in the School of Sports Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences and Director of the Human Performance Unit (HPU) (http://www.humanperformanceunit.co.uk/) at the University of Essex. In these roles, he is responsible for designing and delivering courses in sports nutrition, exercise physiology, and exercise testing. He also conducts research, secures external research funding, and oversees the HPU commercial activities, which involve providing sports science and nutrition services to external clients. Dr McManus holds a PhD in Sport and Exercise Science from the University of Essex, where his research focused on the impact of compression garments on running economy and the use of near-infrared spectroscopy. He also has an MA in Sport Management from London Metropolitan University and a BSc in Sports and Exercise Science from the University of Essex. His research work has been published in several academic journals. In addition to his academic roles, Dr McManus has provided consultancy services to various organizations. He has worked with brands such as SKINS compression clothing, offering advice on brand claims, product development, and research direction. He also served as a Sports Scientist for Lucozade Sport, where he engaged in online communication, delivered seminars and workshops, and was a key speaker at the Virgin London Marathon Expo. His consultancy projects have involved work with GB Basketball, ExoFitness, and Oxygen Boost. Dr Chris McManus also holds significant roles and accreditations that further highlight his expertise in the field. He is a British Association of Sport and Exercise Science (BASES) Accredited Sport and Exercise Scientist, a recognition that underscores his professional competence in sports and exercise science. In addition to this, he serves as a Supervisor and Reviewer for the BASES Supervised Experience Accreditation pathway, guiding aspiring professionals through their accreditation journey. In line with his research interests, particularly in the use of Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scanning, Dr McManus is the Department Ionising Radiation Protection Supervisor (DIRPS) at the University of Essex. This role involves overseeing the safe and effective use of ionising radiation, ensuring that all procedures comply with regulatory standards and that the department maintains a high level of safety when conducting research involving radiation. This role is integral to his research and teaching, allowing him to apply and share his expertise in a practical and impactful manner.

Qualifications

• PhD University of Essex, (2020)

• MA Sports Management London Metropolitan University, (2008)

• BSc Sports and Exercise Science University of Essex, (2006)

Appointments

University of Essex

• Lecturer, School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex (3/9/2018 - present)

• Director of Human Performance Unit, School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex (1/9/2018 - present)

• Manager of Human Performance Unit, School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex (1/11/2013 - 1/9/2018)

• Exercise Physiologist / Sports Nutritionist (Human Performance Unit), School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex (1/9/2011 - 1/10/2013)