Leigh Breen

Professor of Translational Physiology

Leigh Breen is a Professor of Translational Physiology at the University of Leicester, in the Diabetes Research Centre at Leicester General Hospital.

The overarching goal of his research is to understand cellular mechanisms of skeletal muscle plasticity and develop targeted strategies to enhance skeletal muscle adaptation, function and performance in health, ageing and disease; largely focused on exercise and nutritional approaches.

His research is fundamentally translational and utilises a range of innovative experimental methods, as well as wide-ranging interdisciplinary collaborations and community engagement networks to maximise his impact and influence. He also has a passion for supporting the development of early-career researchers.

Professor Breen’s work is supported by extensive funding from research councils, charitable foundations, healthcare bodies and industry partners. He has published over 100 peer-reviewed research articles in highly respected journals and is a regular invited speaker at national and international conferences.