Dr Sam Lucas

Contact Details

School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham

Scientific Background

Research Interests

Dr Lucas is an integrative physiologist whose primary research focus is on the integrative mechanisms that regulate human cerebral blood flow in health and disease. He has a specific interest in how cerebral blood flow is regulated with ageing and during stress (esp. high altitude, thermal, orthostatic, exercise and cognitive) and how this impacts on function (e.g., neurophysiological and psychological/behavioural responses). His broader interests and expertise are in the areas of exercise and environmental physiology, as well as physical activity and health.

Current projects in the Lucas laboratory are focused on:

Investigating age-related and disease-related changes to the regulation of brain perfusion and the functional consequences.
Multimodal assessment of brain health.
Exercise strategies and complementary approaches (e.g., environmental stress, nutrition) that optimise health (esp. brain health).

Scientific Inspiration

My PhD supervisor (Prof Jim Cotter) – He is wise and humble, but also patient!

Research Groups

Centre of Human Brain Health (CHBH)

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: Student-centred, collaborative, innovative.

Provision of Training

I prefer to take responsibility for your technical training at first, leading to more independence later. Throughout your training you’ll be supported by more experienced PhD students and postdocs working in the lab.

Progression Monitoring and Management

I like to work with my PhD students to set out the expectations of your progression on a monthly basis (can be weekly if work requires it at the point in the PhD). If these progression criteria are not met, we will discuss a plan of action together to decide the best course of action to meet the objectives of your project and PhD.

Communication

I am known to email my team/PhD students at all hours of the day and night, as I work flexibly to manage my work-life balance. I encourage my students to find a balance between work and life, so don’t expect emails outside of the hours they plan to work.

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me:

In a group meeting

At least once per week

In year 1 of PhD study

At least once per week

In year 2 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

In year 3 of PhD study

At least once per fortnight

The meetings will be face to face and I am usually contactable for an instant response (if required) on every working day.

Working Pattern

The timing of work in my lab is completely flexible, and (other than attending pre-arranged meetings), I expect students to manage their own time.

Notice Period for Feedback

I need at least 1 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.

Project Details

Dr Sam Lucas is supervising no projects this year.