Mission
To co-ordinate and facilitate excellence in research, training, education, and sports science support in the context of elite East African running
Goals/Objectives
To promote basic and applied research on the East African running phenomenon
To study the limits of human performance
To develop and international centre of research excellence in East African running
Responsibilities
In the context of the mission and objectives of ICEARS, these are:
To provide an interdisciplinary research focus on the East African running phenomenon
To facilitate collaborations between research groups nationally and internationally in the context of East African running
To promote the study of East African running both in the field (i.e. natural environment) but also within the laboratory at the University of Glasgow and other ICEARS laboratories (e.g. Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya; Global Sports Camp, Eldoret, Kenya)
To develop and advise on appropriate sport science support methods for the elite East African runner
To enhance the national and international reputation of ICEARS and partner institutions
Resources
The initial funding of ICEARS is being met primarily from the Institute of Biomedical and Life Sciences (IBLS) with some contributions from external funding secured by ICEARS members
The external research funding base is being developed not only to optimise the ongoing research and training environment, but also to establish and maintain resources for strategic appointments and innovative pilot developments
Management Group
The Management Group consists of the Director of ICEARS (convener) and key members from ICEARS both within University of Glasgow and beyond. It meets every six months to evaluate the progress of ICEARS and to develop proposals for new research directions
Facilities and Resources
A number of the Institutes facilities are available for ICEARS, these include:
Molecular Genetics Laboratory: This is the primary host genetic laboratory set up to run standard techniques in molecular genetics. All standard molecular biology equipment is provided, including pipettes, agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis apparatus, microfuges, bench and large scale centrifuges, PCR machines and sterile work cabinets
Laboratory of Human Physiology: This is the primary exercise testing site
Biochemistry Laboratory: This provides facilities for routine analysis of human bodily fluids (i.e. blood, urine, sweat and saliva)
Analysis Laboratory/Office Space: Providing office space and facilities for routine data analysis (e.g. network of workstations) for ICEARS members
Operational Management
ICEARS is led by the Director, supported by a Management Group. The role of this group is to establish a strategic plan that will address both research themes and activities
Research Themes
These address:
Increasing knowledge of the mechanisms that dictate and limit running performance
The development of strategies for improving elite running performance
Research Activities
To develop a strategic plan for research in East African running
To develop a sponsored programme of activities to promote the research activities of ICEARS, including an annual endowed lecture
To promote excellence in East African running research through developments such as: peer review, international collaboration, joint-funding initiatives, sharing of specialist equipment, resources and personnel
To raise awareness about the activities of ICEARS and to disseminate research information (e.g. website, prospectus, media, outreach)
Research Projects
A number of research projects have already been completed and/or are in progress. Below is a list of some of the ICEARS projects (i.e. those not subject to confidentiality agreements):
Genetic and demographic characteristics of elite Ethiopian endurance runners.
Genetic and demographic characteristics of elite Kenyan endurance runners.
Genetic and demographic characteristics of elite Nigerian sprinters.
Food and nutrient content of elite Kenyan endurance runners during intense high-altitude training.
The effects of ACSM fluid replacement recommendations for endurance athletes on the performance of elite Kenyan runners during intense high-altitude training.
Food and nutrient content of elite Kenyan and Ethiopian runners during racing out with Africa.
Genetic influences on body composition, exercise capacity, and habitual physical activity levels in young school-aged children in rural and urban Kenya.
The assessment of physical activity levels in school-aged children in rural Kenya and associated with endurance performance.
If you are interested in a research project or have a proposal please contact us.
