Dr. Neil Buchanan

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Neil earned a BSc in Applied Sport Science and an MSc in Performance Psychology from the University of Edinburgh, followed by a PhD at the University of the West of Scotland in 2014. His doctoral research, titled 'Deliberate Experience in Sport: An Ethnographic Case Study of Expertise Development in Sports Environments in Scotland,' focused on skills development in sports contexts. After completing his PhD, he taught 'Sport Science' at North East Scotland College (NESCOL), covering various subjects including Sport Coaching and Applied Nutrition. In April 2015, Neil transitioned to Robert Gordon University, where he contributed to the BSc in Applied Sport and Exercise Science, while leading the development of the BSc programme in Sport Coaching. Currently, he serves as the Programme Director for the MSc in Performance Psychology at the University of Edinburgh within the Institute for Sport, Physical Education, and Health Sciences. His teaching encompasses both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and involves courses on Applied Sport Science and Performance Psychology. Additionally, he has practical experience in performance psychology consultancy, collaborating with athletes in golf and motorsport. His current research interests include adaptive expertise, psychological detachment, identity theory, coach-athlete relationships, and behavioral change.

Research Interests

Experience

Programme Director

2023-08-01 — Present

MSc Performance Psychology • University of Edinburgh

Oversees the MSc Performance Psychology program, teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Lecturer

2015-04-01 — Present

Robert Gordon University • Scotland

Contributed to the BSc. Applied Sport and Exercise Science degree and developed subjects related to Sport Coaching.

Sport Science Instructor

2014-01-01 — 2015-03-31

North East Scotland College • Aberdeen

Taught various subjects including Sport Coaching, Psychology, and Strength Conditioning.

Requirements for University of Edinburgh

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.25
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:100
Prerequisites
Undergraduate degree in business, management, or related subject
Application Checklist
  • Academic transcripts
  • Personal statement
  • One academic reference
  • CV/Resume
Specialization Notes

Department of Marketing