PhD Studentship: Kinetic and kinematic determinants of block / turn propulsion and their influence on the performance of underwater phases in elite swimmers

Application details
Reference number: SSEHS/MAK
Start date of studentship: 1st January 2019
Closing date of advert: 12th December 2018
Interview date: week commencing 17th December

Supervisors
Primary supervisor: Dr Mark King
Secondary supervisor: Dr Martin Lindley, Dr Matt Pain

Overall purpose of this study is to
• Identify kinematic and kinetic determinants of start and turning performance in swimming
• Develop a model of the swimming start for all four strokes and optimise start performance
• Increase the knowledge base of coaching and support staff linked to swimming

Loughborough University
Loughborough University is a top-ten rated university in England for research intensity (REF2014). In choosing Loughborough for your research, you’ll work alongside academics who are leaders in their field. You will benefit from comprehensive support and guidance from our Doctoral College, including tailored careers advice, to help you succeed in your research and future career.

Find out more: http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/supporting-you/research/

The School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences has been ranked 1st in the world for Sport-related Subjects (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2017 and 2018).

Full Project Detail
British Swimming, The English Institute of Sport and Loughborough University are collaborating to offer an exciting opportunity to undertake a fulltime PhD investigating the kinetic and kinematic determinants of start block / turn propulsion and their influence on the performance of underwater phases in elite swimmers. The successful candidate will be mentored from senior practitioners at The English Institute of Sport, with access to CPD activities throughout the study period.

Objectives
• Produce a thorough review of current research literature on kinetic and kinematic determinants of block and wall phases of starts and turns
• Complete a comprehensive needs analysis with national coaches and other relevant World Class Programme staff to identify the specific performance related questions
• Plan and undertake a series of applied research studies that will contribute substantially to the currently body of knowledge
• Provide athletes and coaches with relevant performance analysis data, and operate specific analysis equipment at the pool.
• Provide coaches with technical support & data and new knowledge that addresses the coaches’ performance related questions and improves the understanding of how technical skills are best coached/modified

Find out more
Find out more: http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/supporting-you/research/

Entry requirements
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in Sports Biomechanics or a related subject. A relevant Master’s degree and/or experience in one or more of the following will be an advantage: working in a sports science or performance science capacity within elite sports, swimming, working with elite athletes, motion analysis, computer programming, Matlab.

Contact details
Name: Dr Mark King
Email address: [Email Address Removed]

How to apply
All applications should be made online at http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/apply/research/. Under programme name, select “School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences”.

Please quote reference number: SSEHS/MAK