A Passion for Sports and Exercise Science: Dr Manoj Rajakaruna’s Inspiring PhD Journey Advancing ACL Injury Screening Through Sports Biomechanics

“After completing my MSc in the UK, I chose to pursue a PhD in Exercise Science in the School of Allied Health at Murdoch University due to my passion for sports biomechanics and interest in developing practical solutions to prevent sports injuries, especially noncontact ACL injuries,” Manoj said. “Murdoch’s world-class sports science facilities, strong research reputation, and supportive environment, along with the opportunity to work with internationally recognised supervisors, made it the ideal place to study. I aimed to develop reliable, valid, and accessible injury screening tools that could benefit athletes, coaches, and practitioners at all levels.”

During his PhD, Manoj investigated the reliability and validity of the Single-Leg Landing Error Scoring System (SLESS) for assessing noncontact ACL injury risk using both 2 dimensional and 3 dimensional motion analysis techniques.
His findings support the single leg test as a practical, reliable, and valid field-based tool, particularly where 3D motion analysis is unavailable. While further research is needed to establish its predictive accuracy, his work contributes to sports science by providing accessible assessment methods to help coaches identify injury risk early and design targeted prevention strategies, bridging the gap between research and real-world sports practice.

Athlete's performed a jumping task, to mimic likely injury conditions, which Manoj measured using 2D and 3D analysis.

Manoj believes sports science is entering an exciting new era driven by technology and innovation. He predicts that wearable devices, AI-powered motion analysis, and cost-effective 2D tools will revolutionise how injury risks are assessed and prevention programs are designed. “Future graduates will need to combine strong analytical skills with the ability to adapt to emerging technologies and translate scientific findings into practical applications,” he said.

Reflecting on his time at Murdoch, Manoj fondly recalled presenting his research at conferences, collaborating with passionate researchers, participating in the Three Minute Thesis competition, teaching undergraduate students, volunteering at Open Days, contributing to other research projects, and enjoying outings with colleagues. “Murdoch provided me with an incredible platform to learn, grow, and contribute,” he said.

Manoj deeply thanks his supervisors, Associate Professors Alasdair Dempsey and Yvonne Learmonth, for their invaluable guidance, support, and mentorship. “They welcomed me into their team, encouraged me to think critically, and shaped me into a confident researcher,” he said. “Their guidance also enhanced my teaching skills, supported my engagement with industry professionals, and helped me gain accreditation as a Sports and Exercise Science Professional.”

He also thanked the volunteers, athletes, and sports professionals from Perth who participated in his studies, as well as his colleagues, the academics and technical staff from the Discipline of Exercise Science and School of Allied Health, the PHASE Journal Club, and the Graduate Research School for their support. “Finally, I am especially grateful to Murdoch University for awarding me the Murdoch International Postgraduate Scholarship, which covered my tuition and living expenses and enabled me to complete my PhD,” he said.

Dr Manoj Rajakaruna, originally from Sri Lanka, recently joined Charles Darwin University as an Associate Lecturer in Exercise and Sport Science in the School of Allied Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, after completing his PhD in Exercise Science (Sports Biomechanics) at Murdoch University in Perth, Australia. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and Sports at the International School of Physical Education and Sports in Cuba, graduating with First Class Honours (2007–2013). Manoj then lectured at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura and the National Institute of Sports Science in Sri Lanka before moving to the UK in 2017 to complete his MSc in Sport, Health and Exercise Science at the University of South Wales.