As TCU launches Lead On, a tangible representation of our brand identity—what we do, how we do it and why it matters, we are highlighting Horned Frogs who demonstrate the TCU culture: that sense of spirited belonging that fuels us to be better, achieve more and have an impact for the greater good. Strong brands don’t happen by accident—they are built from the inside out—cultivated by trailblazers like Jonathan Oliver. (Fourth in a TCU This Week series.)

He’s not one to sit on the sidelines. Nor is he someone to shy away from asking difficult questions. Dr. Jonathan Oliver is taking a hard look at the long-term damage of head impacts and concussions caused by contact sports and is conducting research to lessen their effects.

Leaders assess needs, identify and supply resources to meet those needs and then observe the results to determine if further work is needed. Oliver and his research into Docosahexaenoic acid, the most abundant omega-3 fatty acid in the brain, in alleviating the effects of head trauma may help reduce the risk of later life neurological problems in contact sport athletes.

Oliver is an assistant professor of kinesiology and director of both the Sport Science Center and the Sports Concussion Research Group. His research focuses on sport performance and athlete health from the laboratory to the playing field, and from the playing field to the laboratory. He is well-published and an international speaker in sport performance and athlete health.

Oliver earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas, a master’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin and a Ph.D. from Texas A&M University.

Learn more at LeadOn.tcu.edu.