After an unprecedented medal haul in Beijing, and with expectations set high for London 2012, Team GB athletes are leading the world in a range of of sporting disciplines. But behind every medal lies years of research in fields as diverse as nutrition and design to psychology and computing.

The six-part series called ‘Cutting Edge 2012: The Research Behind Sport’ will feature world-class, home grown researchers and top Team GB stars.

Triathlon is one of the most high-tech sports in the world and this event is an opportunity to learn more about the research that lies behind Team GB's elite performance.

Professor Steve Haake, one of the UK's top sports scientists will host an evening of debate and demonstrations featuring. Dr Tom Waller, Head of Speedo's Aqualab who will discuss his work developing performance clothing for triathletes; Dr Steph Forrester, a sports scientist and triathlete for Team GB in Sydney 2000 who will explain how the right equipment, from shoes to bras, can enhance athletic performance and; Dr David James who will lead discussions on how far research and new technologies should be used in the quest to win gold.

Tickets are free, but must be booked in advance.

To attend this event please click here.

‘This is a Research Councils UK event in partnership with the Royal Institution, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, The Institution of Engineering and Technology and Podium (the Further and Higher Education Unit for the 2012 Game.’