Professor Jeff Breckon
Pro Vice Chancellor (Research & Innovation)
University ExecutiveProfessor Jeff Breckon is an internationally recognised leader in applied health, wellbeing and behaviour change research, with over 30 years’ experience spanning academia, healthcare and applied practice. His work is characterised by sustained excellence in generating, leading and evidencing high-quality research impact across life sciences, health, clinical, sport and public policy contexts, with a strong emphasis on translation into practice and societal benefit.
Professor Breckon has held a range of senior leadership roles at Teesside University, Sheffield Hallam University, and Lincoln University. He has led major, high-performing REF submissions, including leadership of Unit of Assessment submissions for REF 2028 (UoA3 and UoA7) and previously Sport and Exercise Sciences (UoA24) for REF 2021. Under his leadership, submissions achieved outstanding impact outcomes, with impact case studies rated at the highest levels and national recognition for impact quality. He has led a broad portfolio of health and life sciences and the institutional strategy for Health and Wellbeing at Teesside University.
Professor Breckon has secured over £8.5 million in research and consultancy funding as principal or co-investigator and has published more than 80 peer‑reviewed journal articles, alongside influential books and book chapters with leading international co authors and publishers. His research has informed policy, professional training and practice standards internationally.
A Chartered Psychologist, he is a longstanding member of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT) and has delivered consultancy, training and invited keynote presentations across Europe, North America and Australia. He contributed to the development of the BPS Sport and Exercise Psychology qualification and served as its inaugural Chief Assessor.
A committed educator and research leader, Professor Breckon has led the development of accredited postgraduate programmes, supervised 21 completed PhD candidates, examined 20 doctoral theses internationally, and holds Visiting Clinical Fellowships with the National University of Ireland (Galway) and NHS Trusts in the UK. His work continues to focus on improving population health outcomes and reducing inequalities through evidence‑based, person‑centred approaches. His focus is on enhancing the quality, reach and significance of research impact, supporting interdisciplinary collaboration, growing external partnerships, mentorship programmes for developing academics, and ensuring that research delivers measurable benefits for communities that we serve.