Loughborough University invites applications for two fully-funded PhD positions focusing on advancing research in adapted sports. These projects will contribute to the development of training methods, performance optimization, and health monitoring for elite wheelchair athletes.
Investigating the Demands of Wheelchair Rugby
This project aims to examine the physiological and biomechanical demands of wheelchair rugby, a high-intensity mixed-gender Paralympic sport. The research will analyze training and competition loads using heart rate monitoring, perceived exertion ratings, and wheelchair mobility metrics. Insights gained will support Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby (GBWR) in preparing athletes for future competitions, including the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics. The candidate will collaborate with world-class practitioners and conduct longitudinal data collection at the Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport.
Start Date: October 2025
Application Deadline: March 13, 2025
Location: Loughborough, United Kingdom
https://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research-degrees/phd-opportunities/wheelchair-rugby-game-play/
Exploring Wheelchair Tennis Across Court Surfaces
This project will study the physical and tactical demands of wheelchair tennis on hard, clay, and grass courts, addressing knowledge gaps in player performance across surfaces and demographics. By combining lab and field research, the project aims to enhance understanding of training, performance, and injury prevention, while supporting the progression of athletes towards the Paris 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Paralympics. The research will be conducted in partnership with the Lawn Tennis Association and based at the Peter Harrison Centre for Disability Sport.
Start Date: October 2025
Application Deadline: March 14, 2025
Location: Loughborough, United Kingdom
https://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research-degrees/phd-opportunities/physical-tactical-demands-of-wheelchair-tennis/
Both PhDs offer an excellent opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research at Loughborough University, ranked number one globally for sport-related subjects (QS World University Rankings). Successful applicants will join a vibrant research community within the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, recognized for its world-leading research impact.
For more information and to apply, visit the official Loughborough University website. Applications close in March 2025.
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