Dr Shane Heffernan

Senior Lecturer, Sport and Exercise Sciences

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Academic Office - A128
First Floor
Engineering East
Bay Campus

Available For Postgraduate Supervision

Research Links

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3297-9335

ResearchGate

About

Dr. Heffernan completed an undergraduate degree in Exercise and Sport Science, holds an MSc in Exercise Physiology and a PhD in Molecular Genetics from Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) and a PGCtHE from Swansea University. While at MMU, he explored the molecular genetic variation of human phenotypes from performance physiology to soft tissue and brain injury, using elite athletes as the experimental model. At the same time, and working with MMU colleagues, he investigated the associations of gene variants with detailed in vivo human muscle phenotypes. In 2017, Shane was appointed to a Post-Doctoral research fellowship at University College Dublin (UCD), Ireland. At UCD, he investigated nutrition and nutraceutical interventions for inflammation and symptomatic change in knee joint Osteoarthritis.

He currently holds a visiting associate lectureship at the School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, UCD where he teaches on the Health and Performance Science degree (Molecular Exercise Science module; topic, Exercise and Sports Genomics).

Shane has collaborated with colleagues from across the globe and published in top academic Journals on topics such as mineral nutrition, molecular genetics, muscle and elite athlete physiology, Osteoarthritis and nutraceuticals. He is excited to continue and expand this work at Swansea University as a member of the Applied Sports Science Technology and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM).

Areas Of Expertise

Nutrition and nutraceuticals for Osteoarthritis and knee pain
Mineral nutrition in health and athletic performance
Plant-based nutrition for health and muscle phenotypes
Male and female elite athlete physiology
Molecular exercise physiology

Career Highlights

Teaching Interests

SR-143_Research Methods & Ethics

SR-146_Biomechanics & Technology B

SR-147_Strength & Conditioning

SR-333_Sport, Diet and Disease

SR-311_Sport and Exercise Science Research Dissertation

Research Award Highlights

Publications

Research Highlights

Brazier, J., Antrobus, M., Stebbings, G., Day, S., Heffernan, S., Cross, M., & Williams, A. (2019). Tendon and Ligament Injuries in Elite Rugby: The Potential Genetic Influence. Sports, 7(6), 138
https://doi.org/10.3390/sports7060138, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51434
Conway, G., Heffernan, S., Horner, K., De Vito, G., & Conway, G. (2019). The Role of Mineral and Trace Element Supplementation in Exercise and Athletic Performance: A Systematic Review. Nutrients, 11(3), 696
https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11030696, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51435
Grainger, A., Comfort, P., & Heffernan, S. (2019). No Effect of Partial-Body Cryotherapy on Restoration of Countermovement-Jump or Well-Being Performance in Elite Rugby Union Players During the Competitive Phase of the Season. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 1-23.
https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2018-0911, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51436
Papadimitriou, I., Lockey, S., Voisin, S., Herbert, A., Garton, F., Houweling, P., Cieszczyk, P., Maciejewska-Skrendo, A., Sawczuk, M., Massidda, M., Calò, C., Astratenkova, I., Kouvatsi, A., Druzhevskaya, A., Jacques, M., Ahmetov, I., Stebbings, G., Heffernan, S., Day, S...., & Eynon, N. (2018). No association between ACTN3 R577X and ACE I/D polymorphisms and endurance running times in 698 Caucasian athletes. BMC Genomics, 19(1)
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12864-017-4412-0, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51437
Stebbings, G., Williams, A., Herbert, A., Lockey, S., Heffernan, S., Erskine, R., Morse, C., Day, S., & Heffernan, S. (2018). TTN genotype is associated with fascicle length and marathon running performance. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 28(2), 400-406.
https://doi.org/10.1111/sms.12927, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51439
Heffernan, S., Kilduff, L., Erskine, R., Day, S., McPhee, J., McMahon, G., Stebbings, G., Neale, J., Lockey, S., Ribbans, W., Cook, C., Vance, B., Raleigh, S., Roberts, C., Bennett, M., Wang, G., Collins, M., Pitsiladis, Y., & Williams, A. (2016). Association of ACTN3 R577X but not ACE I/D gene variants with elite rugby union player status and playing position. Physiological Genomics, 48(3), 196-201.
https://doi.org/10.1152/physiolgenomics.00107.2015, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51441
Stebbings, G., Williams, A., Herbert, A., Lockey, S., Heffernan, S., Erskine, R., Morse, C., & Day, S. (2016). Titin genotype is associated with skeletal muscle fascicle length in recreationally active men and running performance in habitually trained marathon runners. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 50(Suppl 1), A55-A56.
https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2016-097120.96, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51453
Herbert, A., Williams, A., Lockey, S., Erskine, R., Heffernan, S., Pedlar, C., Kipps, C., Day, S., & Stebbings, G. (2016). ACTN3 R577x genotype is not associated with elite european caucasian marathon performance. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 50(Suppl 1), A53.2-A54.
https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2016-097120.94, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51454
Williams, A., Day, S., Heffernan, S., & Erskine, R. (2014). Genomics as a practical tool in sport - have we reached the starting line?. Cellular and Molecular Exercise Physiology, 3(1), e6
https://doi.org/10.7457/cmep.v3i1.e6, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51443
Heffernan, S. (2014). Genetic testing in exercise and sport - have direct-to-consumer genetic tests come of age?. Science and Sport: Current Trends, 2(1), 3-9.
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51444
Heffernan, S., Kilduff, L., Erskine, R., Day, S., McMahon, G., Cook, C., & Williams, A. (2014). ACTN3 gene variants are associated with elite status and playing position in rugby union. Journal of Sports Sciences, 32(sup1), s4-s116.
https://doi.org/10.1080/02640414.2014.896604, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51448
Bradburn, S., McPhee, J., Williams, A., Heffernan, S., Lockey, S., Day, S., Murgatroyd, C., & Heffernan, S. (2015). Protocol for Multiplex Amplicon Sequencing Using Barcoded Primers. Handbook of Vascular Biology Techniques -438).
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-9716-0_33, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51445
Heffernan, S., McCarthy, C., Eustace, S., FitzPatrick, R., Delahunt, E., & De Vito, G. (2019). Algae (Lithothamnion) with pine bark reduced pain and improved physical function in knee osteoarthritis, greater than Glucosamine: A double blind, randomized pilot trial. In VitaFoods EuropeVitafoods Europe.
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51456
Heffernan, S., Kilduff, L., Erskine, R., Day, S., Stebbings, G., Cook, C., & Williams, A. (2018). Apolipoprotein E ε4 allele is not associated with elite rugby status but is present in 30% of athletes. In 23rd European Congress of Sports Science (pp. 489
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51449
Herbert, A., Williams, A., Erskine, R., Sale, C., Henns, P., Heffernan, S., & Stebbings, G. (2018). Bone mineral density and associated genetic variants in high-level Caucasian marathon runners. In 23rd European Congress of Sports Science (pp. 48923rd Annual Congress of the European College of Sports Science.
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51451
Antrobus, M., Brazier, J., Herbert, A., Stebbings, G., Day, S., Heffernan, S., & Williams, A. (2018). Associations between MAPT polymorphism but not APOE promoter and elite rugby athlete status. In 23rd European Congress of Sports Science (pp. 48923rd Annual Congress of the European College of Sports Science.
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51450
Brazier, J., Antrobus, M., Herbert, A., Stebbings, G., Day, S., Heffernan, S., & Williams, A. (2018). Association of MMP3 but not TIMP2 gene variants with elite rugby player status and rugby code. In 23rd European Congress of Sports Science (pp. 489
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51452
Lockey, S., Erskine, R., Pedlar, C., Kipps, C., Herbert, A., Stebbings, G., Heffernan, S., & Williams, A. (2015). The individual and combined association between multiple gene polymorphisms and elite endurance athlete status. In European Congress of Sports Science
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51446
Neale, J., Heffernan, S., Day, S., Erskine, R., & Williams, A. (2015). ACE I/D and ACTN3 R577X genotypes in elite rugby league. In British Association of Sport and Exercise Science: Student Conference
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51447
Lockey, S., Erskine, R., Heffernan, S., Herbert, A., Pedlar, C., Kipps, C., Williams, A., & Day, S. (2014). ACTN3 R577X genotype is not associated with elite marathon runners. In Physiological Society
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51455

All Research

Journal Articles

Peel, J., McNarry, M., Heffernan, S., Nevola, V., Kilduff, L., Coates, K., Dudley, E., & Waldron, M. (2024). The effect of 8-day oral taurine supplementation on thermoregulation during low-intensity exercise at fixed heat production in hot conditions of incremental humidity. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 0
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-024-05478-3, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa65883
John, K., Kathuria, S., Peel, J., Page, J., Aitkenhead, R., Felstead, A., Heffernan, S., Jeffries, O., Tallent, J., & Waldron, M. (2024). Caffeine ingestion compromises thermoregulation and does not improve cycling time to exhaustion in the heat amongst males. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 0
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-024-05460-z, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa65826
Ummat, V., Sivagnanam, S., Rai, D., O’Donnell, C., Conway, G., Heffernan, S., Fitzpatrick, S., Lyons, H., Curtin, J., & Tiwari, B. (2024). Conventional extraction of fucoidan from Irish brown seaweed Fucus vesiculosus followed by ultrasound-assisted depolymerization. Scientific Reports, 14(1)
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-55225-z, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa65672
Grainger, A., Comfort, P., Twist, C., Heffernan, S., & Tarantino, G. (2023). Real-World Fatigue Testing in Professional Rugby Union: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Sports Medicine, 0
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-023-01973-3, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa65575
Antrobus, M., Brazier, J., Callus, P., Herbert, A., Stebbings, G., Day, S., Kilduff, L., Bennett, M., Erskine, R., Raleigh, S., Collins, M., Pitsiladis, Y., Heffernan, S., & Williams, A. (2023). Concussion-Associated Gene Variant COMT rs4680 Is Associated With Elite Rugby Athlete Status. Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine, 33(5)
https://doi.org/10.1097/jsm.0000000000001030, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa59448
Peel, J., John, K., Page, J., Jeffries, O., Heffernan, S., Tallent, J., & Waldron, M. (2023). Topical application of isolated menthol and combined menthol-capsaicin creams: exercise tolerance, thermal perception, pain, attentional focus and thermoregulation in the heat.. European Journal of Sport Science, 0, 1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1080/17461391.2023.2211966, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa63383
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17461391.2023.2211966
Brazier, J., Antrobus, M., Herbert, A., Callus, P., Stebbings, G., Day, S., Heffernan, S., Kilduff, L., Bennett, M., Erskine, R., Raleigh, S., Collins, M., Pitsiladis, Y., & Williams, A. (2023). Gene variants previously associated with reduced soft tissue injury risk: Part 1 – independent associations with elite status in rugby. European Journal of Sport Science, 23(5), 726-735.
https://doi.org/10.1080/17461391.2022.2053752, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa65708
Dines, H., Nixon, J., Lockey, S., Herbert, A., Kipps, C., Pedlar, C., Day, S., Heffernan, S., Antrobus, M., Brazier, J., Erskine, R., Stebbings, G., Hall, E., & Williams, A. (2023). Collagen Gene Polymorphisms Previously Associated with Resistance to Soft-Tissue Injury Are More Common in Competitive Runners Than Nonathletes. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 37(4), 799-805.
https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000004291, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa60180
http://dx.doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000004291
Peel, J., John, K., Page, J., Scott, G., Jeffries, O., Heffernan, S., Tallent, J., & Waldron, M. (2023). Factors contributing to the change in thermoneutral maximal oxygen consumption after iso-intensity heat acclimation programmes. European Journal of Sport Science, 23(7), 1-20.
https://doi.org/10.1080/17461391.2022.2160278, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa62160
Hall, E., Lockey, S., Heffernan, S., Herbert, A., Stebbings, G., Day, S., Collins, M., Pitsiladis, Y., Erskine, R., & Williams, A. (2023). The PPARGC1A Gly482Ser polymorphism is associated with elite long-distance running performance. Journal of Sports Sciences, 41(1), 56-62.
https://doi.org/10.1080/02640414.2023.2195737, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa63006
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/02640414.2023.2195737
Brazier, J., Antrobus, M., Herbert, A., Callus, P., Khanal, P., Stebbings, G., Day, S., Heffernan, S., Kilduff, L., Bennett, M., Erskine, R., Raleigh, S., Collins, M., Pitsiladis, Y., & Williams, A. (2022). Gene variants previously associated with reduced soft-tissue injury risk: Part 2 – Polygenic associations with elite status in Rugby. European Journal of Sport Science, 23(8), 1-10.
https://doi.org/10.1080/17461391.2022.2155877, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa62093
Peel, J., McNarry, M., Heffernan, S., Nevola, V., Kilduff, L., & Waldron, M. (2022). Measurement of thermal sweating at rest and steady-state exercise in healthy adults: Inter-day reliability and relationships with components of partitional calorimetry. PLOS ONE, 17(12), e0278652
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0278652, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa62043
Grainger, A., Heffernan, S., Waldron, M., & Sawczuk, T. (2022). Autonomic Nervous System Indices of Player Readiness During Elite-Level Rugby Union Game-Week Microcycles. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 36(11), 3173-3178.
https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000004292, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa61806
Antrobus, M., Brazier, J., Callus, P., Herbert, A., Stebbings, G., Khanal, P., Day, S., Kilduff, L., Bennett, M., Erskine, R., Raleigh, S., Collins, M., Pitsiladis, Y., Heffernan, S., & Williams, A. (2022). Concussion-Associated Polygenic Profiles of Elite Male Rugby Athletes. Genes, 13(5), 820
https://doi.org/10.3390/genes13050820, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa59926
Chopra, K., Jeffries, O., Tallent, J., Heffernan, S., Kilduff, L., Gray, A., & Waldron, M. (2022). Repeated Ischemic Preconditioning Effects on Physiological Responses to Hypoxic Exercise. Aerospace Medicine and Human Performance, 93(1), 13-21.
https://doi.org/10.3357/amhp.5919.2022, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa58541
Peel, J., McNarry, M., Heffernan, S., Nevola, V., Kilduff, L., & Waldron, M. (2021). The Effect of Dietary Supplements on Endurance Exercise Performance and Core Temperature in Hot Environments: A Meta-analysis and Meta-regression. Sports Medicine, 51(11), 2351-2371.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-021-01500-2, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa57057
Metcalfe, R., Kemp, R., Heffernan, S., Churm, R., Chen, Y., Ruffino, J., Conway, G., Tornillo, G., & Orange, S. (2021). Anti-carcinogenic effects of exercise-conditioned human serum: evidence, relevance and opportunities. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 121
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-021-04680-x, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa56708
Heffernan, S., Neville, R., Waldron, M., Stewart, R., Kilduff, L., Ditroilo, M., & Grainger, A. (2021). Position-specific countermovement jump characteristics of elite Women’s Rugby World Cup 2017 athletes. Movement & Sport Sciences - Science & Motricité(113), 27-37.
https://doi.org/10.1051/sm/2021013, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa58666
Waldron, M., Fowler, R., Heffernan, S., Tallent, J., Kilduff, L., & Jeffries, O. (2021). Effects of Heat Acclimation and Acclimatisation on Maximal Aerobic Capacity Compared to Exercise Alone in Both Thermoneutral and Hot Environments: A Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression. Sports Medicine, 51(7), 1509-1525.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-021-01445-6, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa56376
Hall, E., Almeida, S., Heffernan, S., Lockey, S., Herbert, A., Callus, P., Day, S., Pedlar, C., Kipps, C., Collins, M., Pitsiladis, Y., Bennett, M., Kilduff, L., Stebbings, G., Erskine, R., & Williams, A. (2021). Genetic Polymorphisms Related to VO2max Adaptation Are Associated With Elite Rugby Union Status and Competitive Marathon Performance. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 16(12), 1-7.
https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2020-0856, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa57037
Antrobus, M., Brazier, J., Stebbings, G., Day, S., Heffernan, S., Kilduff, L., Erskine, R., & Williams, A. (2021). Genetic Factors That Could Affect Concussion Risk in Elite Rugby. Sports, 9(2), 19
https://doi.org/10.3390/sports9020019, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa56707
Waldron, M., Papavasileiou, G., Jeffries, O., Nevola, V., Heffernan, S., Kilduff, L., & Tallent, J. (2020). Concurrent adaptations in maximal aerobic capacity, heat tolerance, microvascular blood flow and oxygen extraction following heat acclimation and ischemic preconditioning. Journal of Thermal Biology, 93, 102724
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2020.102724, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa55104
Heffernan, S., McCarthy, C., Eustace, S., FitzPatrick, R., Delahunt, E., & Vito, G. (2020). Mineral rich algae with pine bark improved pain, physical function and analgesic use in mild-knee joint osteoarthritis, compared to Glucosamine: a randomized controlled pilot trial. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 50
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102349, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa53601
Fowler, R., Jeffries, O., Tallent, J., Theis, N., Heffernan, S., McNarry, M., Kilduff, L., & Waldron, M. (2020). No thermoregulatory or ergogenic effect of dietary nitrate among physically inactive males, exercising above gas exchange threshold in hot and dry conditions. European Journal of Sport Science, 1-9.
https://doi.org/10.1080/17461391.2020.1739144, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa53719
Brazier, J., Antrobus, M., Stebbings, G., Day, S., Heffernan, S., Cross, M., & Williams, A. (2019). Tendon and Ligament Injuries in Elite Rugby: The Potential Genetic Influence. Sports, 7(6), 138
https://doi.org/10.3390/sports7060138, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51434
Conway, G., Heffernan, S., Horner, K., De Vito, G., & Conway, G. (2019). The Role of Mineral and Trace Element Supplementation in Exercise and Athletic Performance: A Systematic Review. Nutrients, 11(3), 696
https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11030696, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51435
Grainger, A., Comfort, P., & Heffernan, S. (2019). No Effect of Partial-Body Cryotherapy on Restoration of Countermovement-Jump or Well-Being Performance in Elite Rugby Union Players During the Competitive Phase of the Season. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 1-23.
https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2018-0911, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51436
Sheppy, E., Hills, S., Russell, M., Chambers, R., Cunningham, D., Shearer, D., Heffernan, S., Waldron, M., McNarry, M., & Kilduff, L. (2019). Assessing the whole-match and worst-case scenario locomotor demands of international women’s rugby union match-play. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsams.2019.12.016, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa53110
Stebbings, G., Williams, A., Herbert, A., Lockey, S., Heffernan, S., Erskine, R., Morse, C., Day, S., & Heffernan, S. (2018). TTN genotype is associated with fascicle length and marathon running performance. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 28(2), 400-406.
https://doi.org/10.1111/sms.12927, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51439
Papadimitriou, I., Lockey, S., Voisin, S., Herbert, A., Garton, F., Houweling, P., Cieszczyk, P., Maciejewska-Skrendo, A., Sawczuk, M., Massidda, M., Calò, C., Astratenkova, I., Kouvatsi, A., Druzhevskaya, A., Jacques, M., Ahmetov, I., Stebbings, G., Heffernan, S., Day, S...., & Eynon, N. (2018). No association between ACTN3 R577X and ACE I/D polymorphisms and endurance running times in 698 Caucasian athletes. BMC Genomics, 19(1)
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12864-017-4412-0, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51437
Heffernan, S., Kilduff, L., Erskine, R., Day, S., Stebbings, G., Cook, C., Raleigh, S., Bennett, M., Wang, G., Collins, M., Pitsiladis, Y., & Williams, A. (2017). COL5A1 gene variants previously associated with reduced soft tissue injury risk are associated with elite athlete status in rugby. BMC Genomics, 18(S8)
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12864-017-4187-3, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa32970
Heffernan, S., Stebbings, G., Kilduff, L., Erskine, R., Day, S., Morse, C., McPhee, J., Cook, C., Vance, B., Ribbans, W., Raleigh, S., Roberts, C., Bennett, M., Wang, G., Collins, M., Pitsiladis, Y., & Williams, A. (2017). Fat mass and obesity associated (FTO) gene influences skeletal muscle phenotypes in non-resistance trained males and elite rugby playing position. BMC Genetics, 18(1)
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12863-017-0470-1, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa31717
Stebbings, G., Williams, A., Herbert, A., Lockey, S., Heffernan, S., Erskine, R., Morse, C., & Day, S. (2016). Titin genotype is associated with skeletal muscle fascicle length in recreationally active men and running performance in habitually trained marathon runners. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 50(Suppl 1), A55-A56.
https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2016-097120.96, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51453
Herbert, A., Williams, A., Lockey, S., Erskine, R., Heffernan, S., Pedlar, C., Kipps, C., Day, S., & Stebbings, G. (2016). ACTN3 R577x genotype is not associated with elite european caucasian marathon performance. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 50(Suppl 1), A53.2-A54.
https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2016-097120.94, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51454
Heffernan, S., Kilduff, L., Erskine, R., Day, S., McPhee, J., McMahon, G., Stebbings, G., Neale, J., Lockey, S., Ribbans, W., Cook, C., Vance, B., Raleigh, S., Roberts, C., Bennett, M., Wang, G., Collins, M., Pitsiladis, Y., & Williams, A. (2016). Association of ACTN3 R577X but not ACE I/D gene variants with elite rugby union player status and playing position. Physiological Genomics, 48(3), 196-201.
https://doi.org/10.1152/physiolgenomics.00107.2015, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51441
Heffernan, S., Kilduff, L., Day, S., Pitsiladis, Y., & Williams, A. (2015). Genomics in rugby union: A review and future prospects. European Journal of Sport Science, 15(6), 460-468.
https://doi.org/10.1080/17461391.2015.1023222, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa24245
Williams, A., Day, S., Heffernan, S., & Erskine, R. (2014). Genomics as a practical tool in sport - have we reached the starting line?. Cellular and Molecular Exercise Physiology, 3(1), e6
https://doi.org/10.7457/cmep.v3i1.e6, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51443
Heffernan, S. (2014). Genetic testing in exercise and sport - have direct-to-consumer genetic tests come of age?. Science and Sport: Current Trends, 2(1), 3-9.
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51444
Heffernan, S., Kilduff, L., Erskine, R., Day, S., McMahon, G., Cook, C., & Williams, A. (2014). ACTN3 gene variants are associated with elite status and playing position in rugby union. Journal of Sports Sciences, 32(sup1), s4-s116.
https://doi.org/10.1080/02640414.2014.896604, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51448
Williams, A., Heffernan, S., Lundberg, T., Tucker, R., McGawley, K., Millet, G., Sandbakk, Ø., Howatson, G., Brown, G., Carlson, L., Chantler, S., Chen, M., Heron, N., Kirk, C., Murphy, M., Pollock, N., Pringle, J., Richardson, A., Santos-Concejero, J...., & Hilton, E. (n.d.) The IOC framework on fairness, inclusion and non-discrimination on the basis of gender identity and sex variations does not protect fairness for female athletes. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa65578
Heffernan, S. & Harvey, A. (n.d.) The Perspective of Current and Retired World Class, Elite and National Athletes on the Inclusion and Eligibility of Transgender Athletes in Elite Sport. Journal of Sports Sciences
https://doi.org/10.1080/02640414.2024.2326354, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa65707

Book Chapters

Heffernan, S. & Conway, G. (2021). Nutraceutical Alternatives to Pharmaceutical Analgesics in Osteoarthritis. Pain Management - Practices, Novel Therapies and Bioactives IntechOpen
https://doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.95919, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa56542
https://www.intechopen.com/books/pain-management-practices-novel-therapies-and-bioactives/nutraceutical-alternatives-to-pharmaceutical-analgesics-in-osteoarthritis
Heffernan, S. & Conway, G. (2021). Nutraceutical Alternatives to Pharmaceutical Analgesics in Osteoarthritis. Pain Management - Practices, Novel Therapies and Bioactives IntechOpen
https://doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.95919, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa65436
Bradburn, S., McPhee, J., Williams, A., Heffernan, S., Lockey, S., Day, S., Murgatroyd, C., & Heffernan, S. (2015). Protocol for Multiplex Amplicon Sequencing Using Barcoded Primers. Handbook of Vascular Biology Techniques -438).
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-9716-0_33, SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51445

Conference Contributions

Heffernan, S., McCarthy, C., Eustace, S., FitzPatrick, R., Delahunt, E., & De Vito, G. (2019). Algae (Lithothamnion) with pine bark reduced pain and improved physical function in knee osteoarthritis, greater than Glucosamine: A double blind, randomized pilot trial. In VitaFoods EuropeVitafoods Europe.
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51456
Heffernan, S., Kilduff, L., Erskine, R., Day, S., Stebbings, G., Cook, C., & Williams, A. (2018). Apolipoprotein E ε4 allele is not associated with elite rugby status but is present in 30% of athletes. In 23rd European Congress of Sports Science (pp. 489
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51449
Herbert, A., Williams, A., Erskine, R., Sale, C., Henns, P., Heffernan, S., & Stebbings, G. (2018). Bone mineral density and associated genetic variants in high-level Caucasian marathon runners. In 23rd European Congress of Sports Science (pp. 48923rd Annual Congress of the European College of Sports Science.
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51451
Antrobus, M., Brazier, J., Herbert, A., Stebbings, G., Day, S., Heffernan, S., & Williams, A. (2018). Associations between MAPT polymorphism but not APOE promoter and elite rugby athlete status. In 23rd European Congress of Sports Science (pp. 48923rd Annual Congress of the European College of Sports Science.
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51450
Brazier, J., Antrobus, M., Herbert, A., Stebbings, G., Day, S., Heffernan, S., & Williams, A. (2018). Association of MMP3 but not TIMP2 gene variants with elite rugby player status and rugby code. In 23rd European Congress of Sports Science (pp. 489
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51452
Lockey, S., Erskine, R., Pedlar, C., Kipps, C., Herbert, A., Stebbings, G., Heffernan, S., & Williams, A. (2015). The individual and combined association between multiple gene polymorphisms and elite endurance athlete status. In European Congress of Sports Science
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51446
Neale, J., Heffernan, S., Day, S., Erskine, R., & Williams, A. (2015). ACE I/D and ACTN3 R577X genotypes in elite rugby league. In British Association of Sport and Exercise Science: Student Conference
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51447
Lockey, S., Erskine, R., Heffernan, S., Herbert, A., Pedlar, C., Kipps, C., Williams, A., & Day, S. (2014). ACTN3 R577X genotype is not associated with elite marathon runners. In Physiological Society
SU Repository: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51455

Supervision

Assessing Longitudinal Biomechanical, Neuromuscular and Muscle-Tendon changes Pre- to Post-Knee Meniscal Operation-The BioPPOP Project (current)

PhD

Other supervisor: Dr Chelsea Starbuck
The effect of mineral rich Algae with and without plant-based protein supplementation on endurance exercise performance (current)

PhD

Other supervisor: Dr Mark Waldron
Transgender Athletes in Elite Sport (current)

PhD

Other supervisor: Dr Andrew Harvey
Human response to prolonged heat exposure – investigating practical strategies to maintain physical health and occupational performance during rapid deployment (current)

PhD

Other supervisor: Dr Mark Waldron
The influence of dietary patterns on in vivo skeletal muscle and vascular characteristics. (current)

PhD

Other supervisor: Dr Mark Waldron
The effect of taurine supplementation on physiological and thermoregulatory responses during rest and exercise in hot environmental conditions (current)

PhD

Other supervisor: Dr Mark Waldron
Untitled (current)

MSc

Other supervisor: Dr Rachel Churm
The effects of a vegan diet on thermoregulatory responses to exercise in the heat (current)

MSc

Other supervisor: Dr Mark Waldron
The Additive Effect of Ischemic Preconditioning on the Physiological Adaptations to Short, Medium and Long-Term Heat Acclimation. (current)

MSc

Other supervisor: Dr Mark Waldron
The effect of post-exercise, lower-limb passive heating on endurance performance, muscle and vascular function (awarded 2022)

MSc

Other supervisor: Prof Liam Kilduff

Other supervisor: Dr Mark Waldron
Methodological considerations and reliability of visually detecting muscle activity onset during an isometric midthigh pull. (awarded 2024)

MSc

Other supervisor: Dr Nicholas Owen
Opinions of Elite Female Athletes Regarding the Inclusion on Trans Women in the Female Category of Elite Sport (awarded 2023)

MSc

Other supervisor: Dr Andrew Harvey
The Opinions of Athletes on the Exclusion of Individuals with a Difference in Sex Development in the Female Category of Elite Sport (awarded 2023)

MSc

Other supervisor: Dr Andrew Harvey
Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) as an Instrument for Assessing Bone Mineral Density in Historic Human Remains. (awarded 2023)

MSc

Other supervisor: Dr Nicholas Owen

Taught Modules

SR-143 Research Methods & Ethics

This module introduces students to the research methods used in Sport and Exercise Sciences, including a range of research ethical issues that often arise. Students will develop fundamental knowledge and understanding of elementary concepts and principles of research methods including sourcing information, research design, research writing and conducting basic qualitative and quantitative data collection / analysis. Students will also be active in disputing the ethical responsibilities associated with completing research.
SR-311 Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Dissertation

The module involves the application of scientific principles to the solution of a practical or theoretical problem associated with Sport and Exercise Sciences that is presented in the form of a final research paper. The student will gain experience in working independently on a substantial, individual project, using accepted planning and ethical procedures. This process will require and develop self-organisation and the critical evaluation of options and results, as well as developing technical and academic knowledge in the chosen topic.
SR-333 Sport, Diet and Disease

The module will explore the major nutrients of concern in maintaining health and performance in athletes, and the nutrition and related issues surrounding selected diseases.

Key Grants and Projects

Genome Conformation as a Biomarker of Concussion 2019 - 2021

A UK wide project led by Dr. Alun Williams at Manchester Metropolitan University and in collaboration with the Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health at University College London, Holos Life Sciences and Oxford BioDynamics.
The Influence of Dietary Patterns on in Vivo Skeletal Muscle and Vascular Characteristics 2020 - 2024

This project focuses on skeletal muscle, vascular and biochemical phenotypes of people consuming the dietary spectrum from largely plant-based to a largely carnivorous diet.
Dietary Assessment of Knee Pain Sufferers and Non-Pharmaceutical Oral Therapies to Improve Symptoms and Function in Knee Joint Osteoarthritis 2021 - 2025

The focus of this project is to evaluate, in detail, dietary intake, select mineral status and joint structural damage in knee pain sufferers., with Dr. Laura Mason, Dr. Mark Waldron, Dr Gillian Conway
In Vitro Assessment of Nutraceutical Compounds in Tissue Cultures 2020 - 2024

The focus of this project is to evaluate the effect of select nutraceutical compounds on biomarkers and cell phenotypes relative to specific tissue culture in vitro for health disease and physical performance., with Dr. Mark Waldron, Dr Gillian Conway.
OMNIPLaNT (OMnivorous and Non-meat eater Integrative PhysioLogy and NutriTion) 2020

The study is a research project started in July 2020 and is currently underway at the A-STEM research centre, Swansea University.

Career History

Associate lecturer (Physiology), Manchester Metropolitan University

2016 - 2017
Post-Doctoral Research Fellow, University College Dublin

2017 - 2019

Invited Presentations, Lectures and Conferences

Algae (Lithothamnion) with Pine Bark Reduced Pain and Improved Physical Function in Knee Osteoarthritis

2019

VitaFoods Europe 2019 Exhibition, Geneva, Switzerland
Aquamin vs Glucosamine for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Double Blind, Randomized Pilot Trial

2019

STAUBER Corporation, 4120 N. Palm Street, Fullerton, CA, USA

Dr Shane Heffernan

Email address

Twitter Account

Research Links

About

Areas Of Expertise

Career Highlights

Research Highlights

All Research

Assessing Longitudinal Biomechanical, Neuromuscular and Muscle-Tendon changes Pre- to Post-Knee Meniscal Operation-The BioPPOP Project (current)

The effect of mineral rich Algae with and without plant-based protein supplementation on endurance exercise performance (current)

Transgender Athletes in Elite Sport (current)

Human response to prolonged heat exposure – investigating practical strategies to maintain physical health and occupational performance during rapid deployment (current)

The influence of dietary patterns on in vivo skeletal muscle and vascular characteristics. (current)

The effect of taurine supplementation on physiological and thermoregulatory responses during rest and exercise in hot environmental conditions (current)

Untitled (current)

The effects of a vegan diet on thermoregulatory responses to exercise in the heat (current)

The Additive Effect of Ischemic Preconditioning on the Physiological Adaptations to Short, Medium and Long-Term Heat Acclimation. (current)

The effect of post-exercise, lower-limb passive heating on endurance performance, muscle and vascular function (awarded 2022)

Methodological considerations and reliability of visually detecting muscle activity onset during an isometric midthigh pull. (awarded 2024)

Opinions of Elite Female Athletes Regarding the Inclusion on Trans Women in the Female Category of Elite Sport (awarded 2023)

The Opinions of Athletes on the Exclusion of Individuals with a Difference in Sex Development in the Female Category of Elite Sport (awarded 2023)

Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) as an Instrument for Assessing Bone Mineral Density in Historic Human Remains. (awarded 2023)

SR-143 Research Methods & Ethics

SR-311 Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Dissertation

SR-333 Sport, Diet and Disease

Genome Conformation as a Biomarker of Concussion 2019 - 2021

The Influence of Dietary Patterns on in Vivo Skeletal Muscle and Vascular Characteristics 2020 - 2024

Dietary Assessment of Knee Pain Sufferers and Non-Pharmaceutical Oral Therapies to Improve Symptoms and Function in Knee Joint Osteoarthritis 2021 - 2025

In Vitro Assessment of Nutraceutical Compounds in Tissue Cultures 2020 - 2024

Associate lecturer (Physiology), Manchester Metropolitan University

Post-Doctoral Research Fellow, University College Dublin

Algae (Lithothamnion) with Pine Bark Reduced Pain and Improved Physical Function in Knee Osteoarthritis

Aquamin vs Glucosamine for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Double Blind, Randomized Pilot Trial