Dr Michael Carron is an accomplished researcher and practitioner working at the intersection of education, youth strength and conditioning, and human performance. Holding a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD, he brings more than a decade of experience across academic and applied settings, with a research portfolio spanning physical performance, health and wellbeing, and academic outcomes in young people.
Early Career & Academic Foundations
Michael began his academic journey in the United Kingdom, where he developed a keen interest in the relationship between high‑performance sport and education. This curiosity led him to Australia, where he completed his Master’s degree and worked with the multidisciplinary team at Westmead Children’s Hospital, investigating symptom burdens among adolescents recovering from concussion.
PhD Research at St Brendan’s College
In 2021, Michael was invited to undertake a PhD through Central Queensland University in partnership with St Brendan’s College. During this time, he designed and established a comprehensive rugby league high‑performance program and conducted multiple original investigations into adolescent rugby league. His work helped establish international benchmarks, build a comprehensive testing battery, and expand global understanding of training loads and performance in the sport.
Dr. Michael Carron working with our 1st XIII boys on strength, conditioning, and injury‑prevention routines.
Current Role & Impact
After completing his PhD, Michael joined St Brendan’s College in a full‑time capacity as the Director of Research and Development. His research informs day‑to‑day practice across the College, particularly through a holistic approach to student and staff wellbeing. Michael supports systems that help boys maintain all aspects of their health—physical, mental, emotional, and social—while also assisting College leadership in fostering a safe, healthy, and supportive environment for staff.
Collecting meaningful insights — Dr Carron working with a student on one of the College’s wellbeing and performance surveys.
Mission & Research Focus
Driven by a clear mission to advance evidence‑based approaches in adolescent development, health, and education, Michael has led and contributed to large‑scale studies involving thousands of students. He is known for his ability to bridge research and practice, with a particular passion for youth development, physical literacy, and creating sustainable, high‑impact systems in education and sport.
Dr. Michael Carron actively participating in student programs on the oval, working alongside staff and students to support wellbeing and strengthen our College community.