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.

Come along to the world-class Plymouth Life Centre to hear about the research that lies behind the perfect dive.

Andy Banks, coach of Team GB stars such as Tom Daley will discuss how research brings out the best in his athletes. Professor Alan Wing, an expert in human movement, will discuss his work on how divers synchronise their movements and Professor Andrew Lane will discuss ‘emotion regulation' - working with athletes to maximise their performance under pressure.

Sports scientist Professor Steve Haake will host this interactive evening, and Dr David James will lead discussion 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.’