Our Research
Joshua Wedlock PhD
I hold a PhD from Macquarie University, a Master of Research, and a master of Linguistics. My academic work draws on cognitive neuroscience, educational psychology, and the study of expertise, with a focus on deliberate practice in language education. I have researched and published on optimizing learning by considering biological and physiological mechanisms that enhance outcomes. Alongside my academic research, I bring over a decade of professional experience in the health and fitness industry, where I have worked in coaching and program design, and in education, where I have taught and supervised students. My research and teaching are motivated by a commitment to evidence-based approaches that improve learning, performance, and skill development.
Recent Research
Wedlock, J., & Binnie, C. (2025). Deliberate and Purposeful Practice for Second Language Learning: A Framework. TESL-EJ, 29(3), n3.
Wedlock, J., & Wilson, N. (2024). Inclusion in the learning game: Applying considerations from cognitive neuroscience, educational psychology, and SLA to language learning activity and materials design. TESOL in Context, 33(1), 58-81.
Ayden McCarthy PhD
I am a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of New England, with expertise in physical performance, injury risk, and data-driven approaches in applied human sciences. I have recently completed my PhD at Macquarie University, where my research focused on predicting military physical performance and injury risk using machine learning techniques. My academic background includes a Master of Research from Macquarie University and a Master of Exercise Science (Strength and Conditioning) from Edith Cowan University. I hold professional accreditation with the Australian Strength and Conditioning Association (ASCA Level 2) and Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA). My research and teaching are driven by a strong interest in optimising health, performance, and injury prevention across athletic and occupational populations.
Recent Research
McCarthy, A., Wills, J. A., Andersen, J., Lenton, G. K., & Doyle, T. L. (2023). Evaluating the intra-and inter-day reliability of output measures for the VALD HumanTrak: dynamic movements and range of motion of the shoulder and hip with body armour. Ergonomics, 66(3), 406-418.
McCarthy, A., Wills, J. A., Fuller, J. T., Cassidy, S., Nindl, B. C., & Doyle, T. L. (2025). Predicting maximal military occupational task performance from physical fitness tests using machine learning. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 57(9), 1877.
Fain, A., Nindl, B. C., McCarthy, A., Fuller, J. T., Wills, J. A., & Doyle, T. L. (2024). Load increases IMU signal attenuation per step but reduces IMU signal attenuation per kilometre. Gait & Posture, 113, 519-527.
Ongoing Research
Ayden and Josh are investigating how different exercise and physical activity interventions influence brain health and cognitive performance. Their work examines the biological mechanisms that drive these benefits, including changes in key brain chemicals (e.g., BDNF), learning processes, and markers of neural adaptation (e.g., grey matter and white matter). By conducting a systematic review (in progress), they aim to identify which interventions have the strongest impact and why. One of their main objectives is to translate this growing body of research into practical insights that can be applied by coaches, educators, and health professionals.
* We welcome collaboration and are open to discussing research ideas aligned with our areas of expertise. If you would like to connect with us, please reach out via the contact us page.