ARU expert to drive research innovation at U’s
Dr Harley Jean Simpson joins the backroom team at Cledara Abbey Stadium
Dr Harley Jean Simpson at Cambridge United's Cledara Abbey Stadium
Dr Harley Jean Simpson of Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) has been appointed as Cambridge United’s new Head of Research.
The former Cambridge United Women’s player will combine her role as Senior Lecturer in Sport Coaching and Physical Education at ARU alongside her position at Cambridge United, where she will be responsible for developing a research-active culture within the football club.
Specialising in high-performance sport, sport sociology and the decision-making of coaches, Dr Simpson is passionate about using academic research to improve outcomes in professional sport.
Her focus at Cambridge United will be on embedding innovative evidence-based approaches within the club and building a vibrant internal research community, bringing together club staff, academics and external partners.
ARU is Cambridge United’s Education Partner and works with both the football club and the Cambridge United Foundation to improve health and wellbeing, and raise aspirations, across the city.
“I’m thrilled to take up this role, which will help me develop the research culture at the Cledara Abbey Stadium and further strengthen the ARU-CUFC partnership. My focus will be on bridging the gap between theory and practice, and ensuring that academic research is directly benefitting the club at all levels.”
Dr Harley Jean Simpson, who is part of ARU’s School of Psychology, Sport and Sensory Science
“We are a club located in one of the world’s leading cities for education, and we want to draw on the knowledge and expertise of individuals at the top of their fields to help develop all areas of Cambridge United.
“To achieve this, we need someone with a strong research background to guide us and maximise our potential. Harley Jean will do exactly that, and we are excited to welcome her into this new role.”
Alex Tunbridge, Cambridge United’s CEO