Doctoral Studentship: Novel Assessment and Characterisation of Sports Surfaces

Start Date: 1st October 2013

Context and Background
An opportunity exists for an Engineering Doctorate Student to lead a joint research venture between Labosport Ltd and Loughborough University as part of the prestigious four-year Engineering Doctorate programme, leading to the award ‘Doctor of Engineering’.

There exists a large array of component material tests and full system tests for sport surface systems, indoor and outdoor and both artificial and natural, currently specified by the sports’ governing bodies and international standards organisations. Labosport Ltd plays a leading role in both the implementation and development of these tests and the associated standards. The scope and accuracy of these test methods have improved recently but there are still many areas for which research is required to improve both understanding and relevance to the users/stakeholders.

Research Aim
To improve understanding of the science and evaluation of sports surfaces through the development of novel test methods and associated assessment procedures.

Research Objectives
1. Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the current portfolio of standard test methods and equipment used in the sports surface sector.
2. Enhance the company’s knowledge of the factors influencing the performance and longevity of sports surfaces from cradle to grave.
3. Enhance understanding of the ‘end user’ requirements, appraise “fitness for purpose” and suggest areas for improvement/development.
4. Research and develop novel test methods to enhance the current provision, and establish appropriate limits of acceptability.
5. Disseminate the findings widely to industry and the sport governing bodies to enhance practice.

Expected Outcomes
The benefits to Labosport Ltd include: strengthening and growing their technical core knowledge base and equipment portfolio; enhancing their business reputation as the leading sports surface test institute; and providing new opportunities for business development in emerging associated surface related markets worldwide. The benefits for the academic partner include the further development of knowledge and science within the sport surface research group, impact of its research into practice through both enhanced practice and equipment development.

Suitable Candidates
This EngD research project is open to graduates with a relevant background in engineering/science and that are articulate, well qualified and highly motivated. The minimum entry qualification is a 2.1 Honours degree or equivalent. A lower qualification is acceptable if supplemented with an appropriate postgraduate (MSc/MEng) qualification and relevant experience.

The successful applicant will receive a minimum enhanced tax-free stipend of £19,000 p.a. and a training allowance. The stipend may be higher for experienced graduates. Due to Tier 4 visa restrictions on industry placements, this is only available to UK/EU applicants.