Overview
Background
Associate Professor Sjaan Gomersall is Associate Director and Principal Research Fellow at the Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation at School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences and a Teaching and Research academic in Physiotherapy at the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at The University of Queensland. Established in 2022, the Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation (HWCRI) is a collaborative, co-funded research centre by The University of Queensland and Health and Wellbeing Queensland. The HWCRI combines world class research expertise in physical activity, nutrition and health at The University of Queensland, with the reach and capacity of Health and Wellbeing Queensland to integrate, deliver and evaluate evidence-based programs that provide scalable, equitable access to improve the health and wellbeing of all Queenslanders (and beyond).
Associate Professor Gomersall is an expert in physical activity, sedentary behaviour and health. Her research has focused on understanding, measuring and influencing physical activity and sedentary behaviour using a variety of methods and with a range of populations, with a focus on adults, the prevention and management of chronic disease and physical activity promotion in healthcare settings. Sjaan has a strong track record for multi-disciplinary collaborations and industry partnerships, with specific expertise in partnering with healthcare organisations to build capacity in research and physical activity behaviour change, to evaluate the impact of healthcare services and to co-design and test innovative solutions to gaps in service delivery. Dr Gomersall is a nationally and internally recognised leader in physical activity and health. She is the President of the International Society for Physical Activity and Health, Co-Lead and co-founder of the Physical Activity in Healthcare Special Interest Group for the Asia-Pacific Society for Physical Activity, a Consultant for Physical Activity for the World Health Organisation and an Associate Editor for the Journal of Activity, Sedentary and Sleep Behaviours.
Availability
- Associate Professor Sjaan Gomersall is:
- Available for supervision
- Media expert
Fields of research
Qualifications
- Doctor of Philosophy, University of South Australia
Research interests
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Physical activity and health
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Measurement of physical activity and sedentary behaviour
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Health and behaviour change in first year university students
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Effectiveness of new generation eHealth trackers in improving physical activity behaviours
Works
Search Professor Sjaan Gomersall’s works on UQ eSpace
2020
Other Outputs
Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour In People With Myasthenia Gravis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Alsop, Tahlia, Williams, Katrina and Gomersall, Sjaan (2020). Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour In People With Myasthenia Gravis: A Cross-Sectional Study. doi: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-113875/v1
2020
Journal Article
Ten research priorities related to youth sport, physical activity, and health
Howie, Erin K., Guagliano, Justin M., Milton, Karen, Vella, Stewart A., Gomersall, Sjaan R., Kolbe-Alexander, Tracy L., Richards, Justin and Pate, Russell R. (2020). Ten research priorities related to youth sport, physical activity, and health. Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 17 (9), 920-929. doi: 10.1123/jpah.2020-0151
2020
Journal Article
Sedentary behavior in children with cerebral palsy between 1.5 and 12 years: a longitudinal study
Reedman, Sarah E., Johnson, Emily, Sakzewski, Leanne, Gomersall, Sjaan, Trost, Stewart and Boyd, Roslyn N. (2020). Sedentary behavior in children with cerebral palsy between 1.5 and 12 years: a longitudinal study. Pediatric Physical Therapy Journal, 32 (4) 99870, 367-373. doi: 10.1097/PEP.0000000000000740
2020
Journal Article
Experiences of people with cancer who have participated in a hospital-based exercise program: a qualitative study
Ferri, Alessia, Gane, Elise M., Smith, Michelle D., Pinkham, Elizabeth P., Gomersall, Sjaan R. and Johnston, Venerina (2020). Experiences of people with cancer who have participated in a hospital-based exercise program: a qualitative study. Supportive Care in Cancer, 29 (3), 1575-1583. doi: 10.1007/s00520-020-05647-y
2020
Journal Article
Effect of high‐intensity interval training on visceral and liver fat in cardiac rehabilitation: a randomized controlled trial
Taylor, Jenna L., Holland, David J., Mielke, Gregore I., Bailey, Tom G., Johnson, Nathan A., Leveritt, Michael D., Gomersall, Sjaan R., Rowlands, Alex V., Coombes, Jeff S. and Keating, Shelley E. (2020). Effect of high‐intensity interval training on visceral and liver fat in cardiac rehabilitation: a randomized controlled trial. Obesity, 28 (7) oby.22833, 1245-1253. doi: 10.1002/oby.22833
2020
Journal Article
Combined group and home exercise programmes in community‐dwelling falls‐risk older adults: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Teng, Bernadine, Gomersall, Sjaan R., Hatton, Anna and Brauer, Sandra G. (2020). Combined group and home exercise programmes in community‐dwelling falls‐risk older adults: systematic review and meta‐analysis. Physiotherapy Research International, 25 (3) pri.1839, e1839. doi: 10.1002/pri.1839
2020
Conference Publication
Physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and educational outcomes in university students: a systematic review
Babaeer, L., Stylianou, M., Leveritt, M. and Gomersall, S. (2020). Physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and educational outcomes in university students: a systematic review. International Society for Behavioural Nutrition and Physical Activity 2020 Annual Meeting , Auckland, New Zealand, 17-20 June 2020.
2019
Journal Article
Reliability of a multi-domain sedentary behaviour questionnaire and comparability to an overall sitting time estimate
Mielke, Gregore I., da Silva, Inacio Crochemore M., Gomersall, Sjaan R., Owen, Neville and Hallal, Pedro C. (2019). Reliability of a multi-domain sedentary behaviour questionnaire and comparability to an overall sitting time estimate. Journal of Sports Sciences, 38 (3), 1-6. doi: 10.1080/02640414.2019.1701794
2019
Journal Article
A source of systematic bias in self-reported physical activity: the cutpoint bias hypothesis
Olds, Tim, Gomersall, Sjaan, Olds, Spencer and Ridley, Kate (2019). A source of systematic bias in self-reported physical activity: the cutpoint bias hypothesis. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 22 (8), 924-928. doi: 10.1016/j.jsams.2019.03.006
2019
Journal Article
Peer support for the maintenance of physical activity and health in cancer survivors: the PEER trial - a study protocol of a randomised controlled trial
Adlard, Kirsten N., Jenkins, David G., Salisbury, Chloe E., Bolam, Kate A., Gomersall, Sjaan R., Aitken, Joanne F., Chambers, Suzanne K., Dunn, Jeff C., Courneya, Kerry S. and Skinner, Tina L. (2019). Peer support for the maintenance of physical activity and health in cancer survivors: the PEER trial - a study protocol of a randomised controlled trial. BMC Cancer, 19 (1) 656, 656. doi: 10.1186/s12885-019-5853-4
2019
Journal Article
Feasibility, acceptability and efficacy of a text message-enhanced clinical exercise rehabilitation intervention for increasing 'whole-of-day' activity in people living with and beyond cancer
Gomersall, Sjaan R., Skinner, Tina L., Winkler, Elisabeth, Healy, Genevieve N., Eakin, Elizabeth and Fjeldsoe, Brianna (2019). Feasibility, acceptability and efficacy of a text message-enhanced clinical exercise rehabilitation intervention for increasing 'whole-of-day' activity in people living with and beyond cancer. BMC Public Health, 19 (S2) 542, 542. doi: 10.1186/s12889-019-6767-4
2019
Journal Article
A hard day's night: time use in shift workers
Kolbe-Alexander, Tracy L., Gomersall, Sjaan, Clark, Bronwyn, Torquati, Luciana, Pavey, Toby and Brown, Wendy J. (2019). A hard day's night: time use in shift workers. BMC Public Health, 19 (S2) 452, 452. doi: 10.1186/s12889-019-6766-5
2019
Journal Article
Use of previous-day recalls of physical activity and sedentary behavior in epidemiologic studies: Results from four instruments
Matthews, Charles E., Berrigan, David, Fischer, Beate, Gomersall, Sjaan R., Hillreiner, Andrea, Kim, Youngwon, Leitzmann, Michael F., Saint-Maurice, Pedro, Olds, Timothy S. and Welk, Gregory J. (2019). Use of previous-day recalls of physical activity and sedentary behavior in epidemiologic studies: Results from four instruments. BMC Public Health, 19 (S2) 478, 478. doi: 10.1186/s12889-019-6763-8
2019
Journal Article
The evolution of time use approaches for understanding activities of daily living in a public health context
Chau, Josephine Y., Gomersall, Sjaan R., Van Der Ploeg, Hidde P. and Milton, Karen (2019). The evolution of time use approaches for understanding activities of daily living in a public health context. BMC Public Health, 19 (S2) 451, 451. doi: 10.1186/s12889-019-6759-4
2019
Journal Article
The feasibility and acceptability of morning versus evening exercise for overweight and obese adults: a randomized controlled trial
Brooker, Paige G., Gomersall, Sjaan R., King, Neil A. and Leveritt, Michael D. (2019). The feasibility and acceptability of morning versus evening exercise for overweight and obese adults: a randomized controlled trial. Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 14 100320, 100320. doi: 10.1016/j.conctc.2019.100320
2019
Journal Article
Validity of the Apple Watch® for monitoring push counts in people using manual wheelchairs
Karinharju, Kati S., Boughey, Alexandra M., Tweedy, Sean M., Clanchy, Kelly M., Trost, Stewart G. and Gomersall, Sjaan R. (2019). Validity of the Apple Watch® for monitoring push counts in people using manual wheelchairs. Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 44 (2), 1-9. doi: 10.1080/10790268.2019.1576444
2019
Journal Article
Objectively measured physical activity and sedentary behaviour in children with bronchiectasis: a cross-sectional study
Joschtel, Barbara, Gomersall, Sjaan R., Tweedy, Sean, Petsky, Helen, Chang, Anne B. and Trost, Stewart G. (2019). Objectively measured physical activity and sedentary behaviour in children with bronchiectasis: a cross-sectional study. BMC Pulmonary Medicine, 19 (1) 7, 7. doi: 10.1186/s12890-018-0772-8
2019
Conference Publication
Exercise and cancer-related cognitive impairment: A study protocol
Keating, Eliza, Gomersall, Sjaan, Lynem, Phillip, Tsiamis, Michael and Skinner, Tina (2019). Exercise and cancer-related cognitive impairment: A study protocol. COSA's 46th Annual Scientific Meeting, Adelaide, SA, Australia, 12–14 November 2019. Chichester, West Sussex, United Kingdom: Wiley-Blackwell Publishing. doi: 10.1111/ajco.13263
2019
Conference Publication
Sedentary behaviour peaks at 4-5 years of age in a longitudinal, population-based study of children with cerebral palsy followed between 1.5 and 12 years
Reedman, Sarah, Johnson, Emily, Sakzewski, Leanne, Gomersall, Sjaan and Boyd, Roslyn (2019). Sedentary behaviour peaks at 4-5 years of age in a longitudinal, population-based study of children with cerebral palsy followed between 1.5 and 12 years. American Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine, Anaheim, CA, United States, 18-21 September 2019. Chichester, West Sussex, United Kingdom: Wiley-Blackwell Publishing . doi: 10.1111/dmcn.14354
2019
Conference Publication
Examining the role of EXERCISE Time-Of-DAY for weight loss and associated health outcomes: Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial (EXERCISE-TODAY)
Brooker, Paige G., Gomersall, Sjaan R., King, Neil A. and Leveritt, Michael D. (2019). Examining the role of EXERCISE Time-Of-DAY for weight loss and associated health outcomes: Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial (EXERCISE-TODAY). Australian and New Zealand Obesity Society Annual Scientific Conference, Online, 2019. Elsevier BV. doi: 10.1016/j.orcp.2016.10.209
Funding
Current funding
Supervision
Availability
- Associate Professor Sjaan Gomersall is:
- Available for supervision
Before you email them, read our advice on how to contact a supervisor.
Available projects
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Preventing diabetes through taking small steps for big changes
Small Steps for Big Changes is a diabetes prevention healthy lifestyle program. Developed in Canada, our team has received CIHR-NHMRC grant funding to examine the adaption and implementation of the program into an Australian context with clinical and community partners. We are currently seeking PhD candidates to be involved in this exciting project. Successful candidates will work closely with a range of stakeholders, including consumers, practitioners, industry partners and academics.
This unique opportunity would suit students with a background in allied health, health promotion, public health, health psychology, implementation science, or human movement studies. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential. Experience working with industry stakeholders and knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods and behaviour change would be of benefit. First Nations applicants are particularly encouraged to apply.
The Australian NHMRC investigator team includes Professor Genevieve Healy, Dr Ana Goode, Dr Sjaan Gomersall and Professor David Dunstan.
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Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation - multiple opportunities available
We currently have opportunities available for multiple higher degree research (HDR) students to join the Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation (HWCRI). In 2022, UQ received foundation funding from Health and Wellbeing Queensland (HWQld) to co-fund the creation of the Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation (HWCRI). In partnership with HWQld, HWCRI provides clinical and research expertise in in the fields of physical activity and nutrition with a population and preventative health focus, to inform HWQld’s program design, delivery and evaluation. HWCRI conducts innovative and novel high impact transdisciplinary research in community health and wellbeing across the lifecourse, to reduce health inequities and improve the health and wellbeing of all Queenslanders. The UQ HWCRI aims to translate research and evaluation findings into concepts and products for population level, state-wide implementation; and to build and sustain capacity in health promotion expertise by providing ‘real world’ training opportunities for undergraduate, post-graduate and higher degree research (HDR) students and fellows.
Successful applicants will be part of the School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences which is consistently ranked in the world’s Top 5 and is highly regarded nationally and internationally for its teaching, research and community outreach programs. The 2021 QS World Rankings by subject area ranked UQ first in Australia and second in the world in sports-related subjects. They will also be supported and conduct research in partnership with Health and Wellbeing Queensland (HWQld) which is a Queensland Government prevention agency aimed at improving population health and reducing health inequities by reducing the burden of chronic disease across the state. The health and wellbeing of the next generation of Queensland children is a key focus for HWQld and offers a once in a life-time opportunity to change the lives of the next generation where every Queenslander can live their best life, regardless of where they live.
This opportunity would suit students with a background in allied health, health promotion, public health, health psychology, implementation science, or human movement studies. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential. Experience working with industry stakeholders and knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methods and behaviour change would be of benefit. First Nations applicants are particularly encouraged to apply. This is a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of this exciting new research centre and engage with industry partners and government and specific programs of research can be tailored based on the applicant’s interest and previous experience and expertise.
Supervision history
Current supervision
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Doctor Philosophy
Movement behaviours of adults in the inpatient setting
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Sandy Brauer
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Doctor Philosophy
Physical activity behaviour change training for pre-professional health students to support delivery in clinical practice
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Genevieve Healy, Dr Roma Forbes
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Doctor Philosophy
Behaviour Change for Healthy Living - Implementation and evaluation of a health professional delivered physical activity intervention in older adults in a community health service
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Genevieve Healy, Dr Roma Forbes
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Doctor Philosophy
Movement behaviours of adults in the inpatient setting
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Sandy Brauer
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Doctor Philosophy
Fit4Study: A physical activity program to support mental well-being in university students
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Genevieve Dingle, Associate Professor Emma Beckman
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Doctor Philosophy
Behaviour Change for Healthy Living - Implementation and evaluation of a health professional delivered physical activity intervention in older adults in a community health service
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Genevieve Healy, Dr Roma Forbes
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Doctor Philosophy
Using conversation analysis to understand and quantify allied health professionals' dietary behaviour change talk with adults living with Type 2 Diabetes
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Genevieve Healy
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Doctor Philosophy
Using conversation analysis to understand and quantify allied health professionals' dietary behaviour change talk with adults living with Type 2 Diabetes
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Genevieve Healy
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Doctor Philosophy
Advancing knowledge in the measurement of movement behaviors in children with neurodevelopmental challenges
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Stewart Trost, Dr Jessica Hill
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Doctor Philosophy
Movement behaviours of adults in the inpatient setting
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Sandy Brauer
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Doctor Philosophy
Movement behaviours of adults in the inpatient setting
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Sandy Brauer
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Master Philosophy
Enhancing Treatment Outcomes After Gynaecological Cancer (ACUMEN)
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Sandie McCarthy, Dr Elise Gane
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Doctor Philosophy
The role of sleep and physical activity in pain
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Paul Hodges, Dr David Klyne
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Doctor Philosophy
Towards improved access to and utilisation of healthcare services for type 2 diabetes among people with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds in Australia
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Associate Professor Asaduzzaman Khan
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Doctor Philosophy
Women in shift work - nutrition and menopause
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Dr Olivia Wright
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Master Philosophy
Developing and evaluating a student-led model of the Small Steps for Big Changes diabetes prevention program
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Dr Ana Goode, Professor Genevieve Healy
Completed supervision
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2025
Doctor Philosophy
Movement behaviours of adults in the inpatient setting
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Sandy Brauer
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2023
Doctor Philosophy
Health Behaviours and Educational Outcomes among Australian University Students
Principal Advisor
Other advisors: Dr Michalis Stylianou
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2022
Master Philosophy
The Effects of a Tailored Text Message Intervention in Cancer Survivors Participating in Exercise Rehabilitation
Principal Advisor
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2024
Doctor Philosophy
Before-School Physical Activity: A Comprehensive Examination of Outcomes, Behaviours, Correlates and Stakeholder Perspectives
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Dr Michalis Stylianou
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2023
Doctor Philosophy
Health-related behaviours of children of immigrant parents in Australia
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Associate Professor Asaduzzaman Khan
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2022
Doctor Philosophy
Enhancing adherence to falls prevention exercise in older adults with a risk of falling in Singapore
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Dr Anna Hatton, Professor Sandy Brauer
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2022
Doctor Philosophy
Promoting Physical Activity for Community-Dwelling Manual Wheelchair Users with Spinal Cord Injury
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Stewart Trost, Professor Sean Tweedy
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2021
Doctor Philosophy
Morning versus Evening Exercise: Efficacy on Cardiometabolic Health and Associated Outcomes
Associate Advisor
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2019
Doctor Philosophy
Physiological and psychological effects of an exercise program on children with chronic pulmonary disease
Associate Advisor
Other advisors: Professor Sean Tweedy, Professor Stewart Trost
Media
Enquiries
Contact Associate Professor Sjaan Gomersall directly for media enquiries about:
- activity trackers
- physical activity
- university student health and wellbeing
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