Deakin retains top spot in global rankings for sports science schools

The accolade marks the sixth time Deakin has topped the list globally, with wins in 2016 and 2017 and consecutive wins in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. Deakin has ranked number one in Australia every year since the rankings began.

The Global Ranking of Sports Science Schools and Departments assesses areas including the number of times research work is cited by others globally and the total number of papers published in the top 25 per cent of journals in the world.

Deakin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin said the award recognised exceptional and sustained achievements in teaching, research and innovation.

'This is a timely acknowledgement as we celebrate Deakin's 50th anniversary and cement our position as one of Australia's largest universities excelling in both education and research,' Professor Martin said.

'Our distinctive approach is particularly evident in our School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, led by Professor Brad Aisbett, and in IPAN under Deakin Distinguished Professor Jo Salmon, where our teaching, research and support teams work with our partners to deliver transformative benefits for society that create global impact.'

Professor Aisbett said the global accolade owed much to the collective contributions of staff and HDR students throughout the school.

'We are committed to building and sustaining research capacity within our school and institute, while continuing to ensure our students have access to authentic practical experiences and working with our partners to deliver education and research programs relevant to today's society.'

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Deakin Distinguished Professor Matthew Clarke said that the University's consistent leadership in the area of sports science demonstrated Deakin's ability to deliver excellence in both research and teaching.

'That nexus between the work our researchers do and the experience we deliver to students is based on a shared commitment to continuously improving knowledge in the areas of nutrition and exercise,' Professor Clarke said.

'Our world class research teams are incredibly proud to see their efforts recognised through this number one ranking.'