Brian Heilbronn

Brian Heilbronn is a Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Science and Clinical Exercise Physiology at James Cook University. Since joining JCU in 2017 as a Clinical Educator, he has expanded his role to subject coordination, clinical education, and research leadership. Brian coordinates undergraduate and postgraduate subjects in Strength and Conditioning, Exercise Physiology, and Clinical Practicum, while also supervising students in the JCU Performance Science Hub.

A former infantry soldier and current Army Reservist Human Performance Officer, Brian’s teaching and research are shaped by his Defence background. His PhD investigates the physiological responses to military occupational training, with outcomes directly informing injury prevention and physical conditioning strategies in the Army and wider Defence. He has published widely, presented at international conferences, and attracted Defence and community-based research funding.

Brian is an accredited Professional Level 2 Strength and Conditioning Coach (ASCA) and the National Head of Strength and Conditioning for the ADFs Adaptive Sports Program (Invictus & Warrior Games Teams). He also leads JCU’s Veterans’ Physical Activity and Sports Performance Program, which supports rehabilitation, recovery, and reintegration for military veterans while providing unique learning opportunities for students. Locally, he is the strength and conditioning coach for the Townsville District Rugby League Referees Association and contributes to the QRL High Performance Unit. 

Through combining clinical expertise, applied research, and industry engagement, Brian is committed to developing future-ready graduates and advancing knowledge in Defence, veteran, and adaptive sport performance.