UCT’s HPALS – among top ten sport science schools globally

The University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Health through Physical Activity, Lifestyle and Sport (HPALS) has secured a spot on the 2025 Shanghai Sport Science Schools and Departments’ top ten list. The centre’s 10th place ranking places them among the world’s best in the field and further galvanises UCT’s position as a globally recognised institution.

HPALS is one of UCT’s youngest research centres and is led by Associate Professor Yumna Albertus (director) and Professor Alison September (deputy director). Its work spans the full spectrum of human movement and health – from genetics, optimising sports performance, reducing injury risk, and biomechanics, to sleep science, nutrition and community health. At its heart is a belief that physical activity and lifestyle are powerful levers for health, well-being and performance. Through its work, the centre aims to combat the pandemics of obesity and inactivity and reduce the burden of disease and injury. Researchers achieve this by producing cutting-edge, inclusive research that informs policy, supports equitable strategies and builds essential capacity for a healthier, more vibrant African continent.

‘Powerful vote of confidence’

The 2025 Global Ranking for Sport Science Schools and Departments highlights the performance of more than 300 universities around the world that boast sport-related units. The qualifying criteria stipulates that institutions or units must publish a certain number of papers in the Web of Science – a platform that provides access to curated database indexing, high-quality scholarly literature, research evaluation and discovery across sciences, while actively engaged in research.

“As a team, we put our hearts into what we do and this recognition reassures us that our work is not only rigorous, but also truly impactful.”

“Our 10th position ranking means so much to us. It is a powerful vote of confidence in the quality and integrity of our research, and in the people behind it. As a team, we put our hearts into what we do and this recognition reassures us that our work is not only rigorous, but also truly impactful,” said Associate Professor Albertus.

“And for our researchers, students and collaborators it is a genuine pat on the back. It’s a moment to pause, feel proud and recognise the dedication, long hours and the shared belief that what we do matters. We also extend a special thank you to the UCT leadership for their unwavering support, which has helped us create a space where excellence thrives, and our funders who truly believe in our vision and help us make this work possible.”

Research placed on the global stage

Albertus said the ranking places the centre’s research firmly on the global stage – demonstrating that world-class science is produced at the southern tip of Africa, and that it’s “making waves internationally”.

Further, she said, a recognition of this kind also strengthens the credibility and influence of HPALS academics’ and students’ work, supports the process of translating research into policy and practice and opens doors to new collaborations and partnerships from around the world.

“Most importantly, this recognition amplifies our voice, ensuring that African-based research contributes meaningfully to global knowledge and conversations, while remaining grounded in local relevance and impact,” Albertus said.

Teamwork makes the dream work

But a recognition of this kind would be impossible without a dedicated, passionate team who show up every day and bring their A-game.

“We are a small team of researchers spread across three floors in a building, but our networks, collaborators and partners span the globe. That reach is only possible because we work together, openly, generously and with a shared sense of purpose,” she said.

“No one works in isolation. We show up every day with curiosity, grit and a genuine belief that our work matters. We are intentional about being inclusive and value each voice and perspective because it all contributes to shaping our projects. As we kick start the new year, HPALS is energised to build on the momentum we’ve created and we’ll continue growing our community, expanding our collaborations and staying true to our purpose.”

Over the past eight years, HPALS has consistently ranked in the top 50 on the Shanghai Sport Science Schools and Departments list – climbing from 49th place in 2018, to 41st place in 2021, 31st place in 2023 and 25th place in 2024.