Paul founded the LU Sport Surfaces Research group in 2002. The research group’s work focusses on surface and base design and materials, mechanical and player testing, player experience and performance/safety, and maintenance. 

He has secured more than £2 million of related research funding from the EPSRC, Innovate UK, industry organisations (including the GMA) and Sports Governing Bodies. He has published ~200 peer-reviewed research papers and books. 

Paul is a geotechnical engineer by training and currently supports the BSI PR57 and SAPCA technical committees, is an active member of the ESTC, and serves on the editorial board of the two international journals of sports engineering.