AIS Robert T Withers PhD Scholar Award for physiologists

Talented sports physiologists recognised for excellence@AIS

Talented sports physiologists Nicola Bullock and Eileen Robertson from the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) have been named joint winners of the inaugural AIS Robert T Withers PhD Scholar Award.

‘Both of the PhD scholars are working at the forefront of sports science research and development and pushing the limits of scientific inquiry to help Australian athletes and teams gain that winning edge,’ said Professor Gore. ‘They have shown tremendous passion, drive and commitment in their PhD research work.’

Nicola Bullock was commended for her exhaustive PhD research into the performance of Australia’s winter athletes in skeleton racing. Her research, which was mentored by Dr David Martin, has let to a much greater understanding of key factors that affected the performance of skeleton athletes at the Winter Olympic Games.

Eileen Robertson, currently a lecturer in exercise physiology at the University of Canberra, was recognised for her significant contribution under the guidance of Professor David Pyne to physiological expertise and support that helped maximise the performance of AIS swimmers and teams in preparation for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.

The AIS Robert T Withers PhD Scholar Award includes a $5000 prize and medallion. It is open to current PhD scholars (or individuals who graduated less than one year ago) from any Australian university, sports institute or academy, who have conducted exercise physiology research that has had a substantial impact, or the potential to have a strong impact, on Australian sport.