My main research interests are in relation to investigating the role of physical activity in chronic disease management and in particular, the role of improving secondary cardiovascular risk factor management in post-TIA and stroke patients. I am also interested in exploring novel management options for management of osteoarthritis, including use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, and ensuring safe road cycling. 

Neils research investigates the ability of physical activity to manage chronic diseases and he is particularly interested in the role of modifying cardiac rehabilitation for use in the post-TIA and 'minor' stroke population to manage their cardiovascular risk factors. Examples of research activities in these areas include developing and evaluating complex interventions to support cardiovascular risk management post-TIA and 'minor' stroke; promoting physical activity with a pedometer in primary care; systematic reviews and meta-analysis of secondary cardiovascular prevention in the TIA and stroke population. This work encompasses the use of app and web-based technology to support behaviour change. Current research is also exploring road cycling injuries and how to implement injury prevention programmes in this cohort of athletes as well as the role of platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections in the symptomatic management of knee osteoarthritis.

Research funding from: NIHR doctoral fellowship; R&D Office Northern Ireland; Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke; NIHR Clinical Lectureship.

NIHR Doctoral Fellowship: 2014 - 2018. 

NIHR Clinical Lectureship (Keele University): 2018 - current. 

BJSM PhD Academy Nominee: 2019

UCI Concussion Committee member: 2019/20

Versus Arthritis tutor. 

Editor of the Oxford Handbook of Sport and Exercise Medicine. 

FSEM(UK) examiner for the FSEM membership exam. 

Appraiser for sport medicine consultants in the UK through the FSEM(UK).  

Lead for Year 4, medical student, teaching on Fractures/Orthopaedics. 

Examiner at medical student OSCEs and written examinations. 

Previous led on special study module (SSC) development for sport medicine. 

Sport and Exercise Medicine consultant. 

GP. 

Sport and exercise medicine. 

General practice and primary care. 

Cardiovascular prevention. 

Physical activity promotion and prescription. 

Symptomatic management of osteoarthritis. 

Injury prevention and management in road cycling. 

Sports-related concussion / concussion.