Jonathan is a Senior Lecturer in Strength and Conditioning within the Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences. His research programme examines how the neuromuscular system adapts to and controls high-force movement through the lens of applied human performance. Particular areas of interest include eccentric muscle actions and training, neuromuscular function and fatigue, injury risk and rehabilitation, and youth athlete development. These interests are explored using techniques including transcranial magnetic stimulation, peripheral nerve stimulation, electromyography, force measurement and three-dimensional motion analysis, alongside applied testing in sporting environments.

Central to his work is the development of postgraduate researchers who can connect rigorous laboratory science with meaningful questions from sport and clinical practice. He supervises researchers across MRes, PhD and Professional Doctorate programmes and works closely with academic, clinical and sporting partners. His approach emphasises not only the production of high-quality research, but also the development of the critical thinking, communication and applied skills required for successful careers within academia and professional sport.

His research is supported through interdisciplinary collaborations, knowledge-exchange activity and industry-linked postgraduate projects involving professional sports clubs, governing bodies and practitioner organisations. Across this work, a consistent aim is to translate mechanistic understanding into practical approaches to athlete preparation, injury-risk reduction and rehabilitation.

Jonathan is an Associate Editor for the European Journal of Sport Science and Sports & Exercise, Medicine & Health, Grassroots and Community Section Editor for Professional Strength and Conditioning, and an Editorial Board member for Sport Sciences for Health. He also serves on the UK Strength and Conditioning Association Research and Grants Panel and was named the UKSCA Coach of the Year for Education and Research in 2024.