PhD Studentship (full-time): Fitness Preparation through the Microcycle

Project Title: Fitness preparation of Premier League soccer players through the microcycle

Several exciting opportunities have arisen to undertake a fully funded applied PhD studentship in conjunction with Brentford FC and Cardiff Metropolitan University. The purpose of these roles is to combine postgraduate research with the development of practitioner-based skills through assisting in the delivery of the performance strategy at Brentford FC. Practitioner duties will primarily be with senior squads, while research may be conducted with these squads or younger age groups.

Package

Three-year bursary plus tuition fees (at UK rate). Stipend amounts are in line with RCUK rates. For 2026/27 this is set at £21,805. For subsequent years, the doctoral stipend will match those outlined annually by the RCUK.

Key responsibilities

• To plan and complete a programme of research suitable for a PhD related to football performance.
• Engage in a programme of applied sport, and coaching science related training associated with the development of relevant competencies for applied practice within elite football.
• Assist in the delivery of the club-based performance strategy, such as data collection, data management and analysis, support regular performance testing, and associated interpretation and reporting of results. Attendance at selected games and training camps, if and when required.
• To fulfil the academic, professional, and personal requirements associated with the completion of tasks linked to doctoral level research and the role of a trainee practitioner in elite football.

Project Description

The purpose of this PhD is to undertake a series of high-quality studies, which establish a theoretically informed programme of periodisation and fitness preparation in elite football, identifying areas to optimise provision for elite football players. More specific details on each project will be shared with those candidates invited to interview.

Criteria

Successful candidates will have a strong academic track record that is relevant to the research area of interest, together with some experience of working in an applied performance setting. Experience of working in football is highly desirable.

Practitioner knowledge

• Sports science, coaching science, strength and conditioning, fitness, or related experience in elite sport.
• Sound knowledge and practical experience in elite sport, preferably football. Experience of engaging with athletes/players within an elite sport/football environment. Ideally, this experience should be within the context of sports science, coaching science, fitness, or related activities.

Education and Qualifications

• A good BSc (Hons) in sports science, coaching science, strength and conditioning, or related field is essential.
• Desirable: postgraduate qualification in sport science, coaching science, strength and conditioning, or related field.
• Demonstrate activity related to the ability to gain accreditation within a professional body relevant to sport and exercise science or strength and conditioning.

Personal Attributes

• Experience of conducting applied research in football or other elite sports.
• Engaging personality and able person with the ability to adapt to fresh challenges.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal with the ability to manage time effectively and efficiently to achieve all aspects of the role.
• Good team player, and the ability to work on own initiative. A flexible approach to working hours is a must.

Application

To apply for this opportunity, please submit the following:

• Your CV (max 2 pages)
• Your cover letter (max 1 page)
• Your research proposal (max 2 pages + references)

The proposal should align to the research theme and include a brief literature review related to the specific project area, with an outline of the studies that you would propose to complete to address the focus of the PhD programme.

Applications should be submitted through the Brentford FC careers portal.

Applicants invited to interview will be asked to submit copies of their degree certificates, transcripts and evidence of any other relevant qualifications prior to interview.

Given the anticipated high-volume of applications received, we will only contact those applicants who are invited to interview.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Ryland Morgans at rmorgans@cardiffmet.ac.uk.

The project will also be supervised by Dr John Radnor.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 25 March 2026. First stage interviews likely w/c 20 April 2026.