Congratulations to Dr Tom Owens on the award of his PhD for a thesis entitled 'Neurovascular implications of life-long exposure to contact in rugby union; the link to cognition'.

Tom said: “It is a great achievement and something I am very proud to have even had the opportunity to be part of. After five years of hard work, it was amazing to see it all pay off. 

“Conducting research has been an invaluable experience, which has allowed me to grow as an academic and as a person. The research that formed the basis of my PhD (and other research projects held at the Neurovascular Research Laboratory) expand knowledge across a variety of health settings. I hope that I get the opportunity to continue to progress this research, specifically looking at ways that we can better protect and manage those exposed to contact and head injury in sport.  

Professor Damian Bailey, Tom’s director of studies, said: “Tom's research into sports concussion forms part of the Neurovascular Research Laboratory's wider focus on novel models of 'accelerated' brain ageing, how it happens and how it can be prevented especially through exercise. 

He continued: "Working with elite rugby union players, this research has identified why recurrent contact causes so many problems for the brain and cognition that in later life, may contribute to early-onset neurodegenerative disease including Alzheimer's.”

Dr Chris Marley added: “It has been a pleasure to be part of Tom’s academic journey at the University of South Wales, which started with the BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science degree before progressing towards a PhD. His research into concussion in rugby is very topical, as demonstrated by the media interest in his work. I have no doubt that Tom will continue to conduct high-quality research as part of the wider Neurovascular Research Laboratory team within his new academic role at the University, which will help us better understand the potential consequences of concussion for brain health in rugby players.”