News and Events

BU researcher joins Paralympic Committee

28 April 2009

The 2012 Paralympics will benefit from unique research into prostheses technology, thanks to a BU academic.

BU Senior Lecturer Bryce Dyer has joined the International Paralympic Committee, helping to evaluate and review sports technology and advise on policy in preparation for the 2012 Games.

Bryce, who is part of BU’s Design Simulation Research Centre based within the School of Design, Engineering & Computing, is currently undertaking a PhD in Prostheses Sports Technology.

He was invited to join the committee based on the emerging results of his doctoral research project titled ‘A Fair Provision Of Lower-Limb Prostheses Technology For Paralympic-Level Running’.

His research poster presentation, which won third place at the Paralympics GB National Conference at Loughborough University in March 2009, drew the following conclusions:

The lower-limb running prosthesis is a restorative (not enhancement) form of equipment in nature and should be treated as such
Increased legislative control and performance limitations should be imposed on the lower-limb prostheses to maintain a fair environment within the specific running discipline
A lower-limb prostheses performance should be set by individuals’ own physical abilities that they have obtained under naturally generated means rather than a blanket specification.

Reflecting upon his appointment, Bryce said: “The aim of the International Paralympic Committee is to maintain a fair sport to all of its participants, but also one that maximises the potential of athletes with disabilities.

“Being a member of this prestigious advisory group will allow me to implement my current research experience in disability sports technology at a global level and also to contribute in a practical way to the further development of the GB team.”