Professor Sarah Aldred MSc, PhD

BSc (hons) Chemistry with Analytical Chemistry (University of Hull) 
MSc Toxicology (University of Birmingham) 
PhD Biochemistry (University of Birmingham)

Since joining the University of Birmingham in 2003, Sarah has worked to link her previous research experience in biochemical mechanisms of disease with research within a thriving Exercise Sciences department.  Over the past 20 years Sarah's research has evolved to facilitate work with other clinical populations that share common underlying mechanisms of pathology. Most recently Sarah has undertaken research investigating the biochemical basis of psychosis. This work has developed in two main directions; firstly linking with clinicians to plan and evolve a multi-centre RCT assessing the effect of exercise on clinical symptomology; and second via creation of a stem cell model to assess the role of redox perturbation and inflammation as mechanisms that contribute to neurodevelopment and neurodegenration.

Sarah's research has attracted funding, and enabled invitations to be part of expert panels, steering committees and write research reports. Sarah collaborates nationally and internationally to facilitate research into lifestyle intervention and Sarah was part of the leadership of the Midlands Network for Alzheimer’s Research UK (2006-26).

Sarah contributes to several modules in the school, such as Metabolic Perspectives in Exercise and Nutrition

Sarah Aldred is an exercise biochemist interested in the mechanisms underlying disease. Sarah works across model systems (IPSC), blood biomarkers and interventions in humans to investigate mechanisms of disease and metabolic dysfunction and how exercise can be used to perturb homeostasis.
Sarah has supervised more than 20 doctoral students to completion and continues to accept applications from prospective students.

Sarah Aldred, PhD is a Professor of Exercise Biochemistry and Deputy-Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research Environment) University of Birmingham, UK. Sarah splits her time between academic leadership and her own research interests.

Sarah is an exercise biochemist interested in the effects of exercise on disease process and pathology. She works with models of disease, including stem cells, biomarkers of disease pathology, and whole humans! Sarah works with young people with psychosis and older adults with dementia to investigate the mechanisms by which exercise can affect risk for disease and disease progression. 

Sarah is a member of a number of professional bodies to support her research including: The Biochemical Society, The Society for Free Radical Research, The American College of Sports Medicine, The Society of Toxicology, and European College of Sports Science. Sarah is also a member of the Alzheimer’s Society and has given a number of talks at the Alzheimer’s society Quality Research in Dementia public meetings, and Alzheimer’s Research UK public awareness events. Sarah has also presented her work at the British Science Festival and Pint of Science events.

Sarah is associate editor for the Journal of Sports Sciences.

Sarah is a founding member of the Alzheimer’s Research UK Midlands Network of researchers. 

Sarah is an active citizen of the University. She has held several administrative positions within the School, College and University during her appointment.