Supervisor Database Search
Guidance for ICAT Supervisors
The ICAT Supervisor list is reviewed annually by the partner universities and updated online in March/April each year.
You can read about the ICAT supervisor selection process and eligibility criteria below:
Terms of reference/guide to supervising ICAT Fellows.
You can read the terms of reference for supervisors actively supervising ICAT Fellows below:
Supervisor Database
Search for supervisors below. You can filter your search using the options and select multiple fields by holding CTRL (Cmd on Mac) + clicking multiple options in a list.
Full NameProfessor Gráinne O'Donoghue
- physiology and non-communicable disease
- epidemiology/population health research
- preventive medicine/behavioural change interventions
- Other
Sedentary Behaviour, Clinical Exercise, NCDs, Severe Obesity
- Sports and Exercise Medicine
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Physiotherapy
Sedentary Behaviour, Clinical Exercise, NCDs, Severe Obesity
Our research group focuses on the role of physical activity and exercise in the prevention and management of chronic disease, with a particular emphasis on obesity, pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, other non-communicable conditions and post VTE survivors. We investigate patterns and determinants of physical activity and sedentary behaviour and develop evidence-based interventions to promote sustainable behaviour change and improve health outcomes.
A central theme of our work is the integration of “exercise as medicine” within healthcare systems. This includes examining how healthcare professionals can effectively promote and prescribe exercise as part of routine clinical care. Our research also explores healthcare professional education, clinical competencies in obesity management, and strategies to address weight bias and stigma within healthcare settings.
Methodologically, the group uses a range of approaches including systematic reviews, observational studies, behavioural intervention design, and implementation research in clinical and community settings. Our work aims to bridge the gap between research evidence and clinical practice by developing practical, scalable approaches to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviour among populations at risk of chronic disease.
Findings from the group have been published in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to informing clinical practice, healthcare education, and public health policy.
Publications:
The rapid expansion in the use of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists for obesity and type 2 diabetes has transformed pharmacological weight management. However, emerging evidence suggests that a substantial proportion of weight loss associated with GLP-1 therapy may include reductions in lean mass and muscle strength. There is growing recognition that structured exercise interventions may be essential to optimise clinical outcomes, preserve muscle mass, and support long-term metabolic health among individuals receiving these medications.
This PhD project will investigate how exercise can be effectively integrated alongside GLP-1 therapy to enhance health outcomes and support sustainable weight management. The research will examine behavioural, clinical, and health system factors influencing physical activity participation among individuals prescribed GLP-1 medications.
Using a mixed-methods and translational research approach, the project may include: (1) observational research examining physical activity, body composition, and functional health outcomes among individuals using GLP-1 therapies; (2) qualitative research exploring patient and healthcare professional perspectives on combining pharmacological treatment with exercise; and (3) the co-design and pilot evaluation of a targeted exercise intervention aimed at preserving lean mass, improving functional capacity, and enhancing cardio-metabolic health.
The project will involve collaboration with clinical and community partners and will generate evidence to inform clinical practice and exercise guidance for patients prescribed GLP-1 medications.
This interdisciplinary PhD will provide training in clinical research methods, behavioural science, and intervention development. The findings will contribute to emerging international efforts to integrate pharmacological and lifestyle approaches to obesity management and support the implementation of “exercise as medicine” within modern obesity care pathways.
n/a