Staff Profile
Dr Garcia Ashdown-Franks
University Research Fellow
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I obtained a BSc in Kinesiology in 2015 and an MSc in Exercise Sciences in 2018 from the University of Toronto. I was awarded a PhD in Exercise Sciences in 2022 from the University of Toronto, and also spent time as a Visiting Researcher at King's College London, where my research focused on parkrun, mental health and social inclusion.
I previously held an externally funded postdoctoral research position at Brunel University London. In 2024, I joined York St John University as a University Research Fellow in the Institute for Health and Care Improvement.
- School – School of Science, Technology and Health
- Email – g.ashdownfranks@yorksj.ac.uk
- Research - View my work in RaY
- Postgraduate Research Supervisor
Further information
Teaching
My teaching experience is in the areas of Sport and Exercise Psychology, Psychology of Body Image, and Research Methods. I also contribute to research-specific training and CPD sessions delivered to staff and postgraduate students.
Research
My research focuses on the relationships between physical activity, mental health, body image and weight stigma. I am experienced in both qualitative (i.e., interviews, ethnography) and quantitative research methods, and I take a critical stance towards health and weight studies. I draw from critical health studies, fat studies, exercise science, psychology and sociology in my work, with the ultimate aim of fostering inclusive physical activity spaces and experiences for individuals of all body shapes, sizes, and weights.
