Underlying physiology of human motivation in endurance contexts

Project detail:

The aim of the project is to develop an original perspective on human endurance situated at the interface of psychology (motivation) and physiology. The guiding hypothesis is that metabolic and physiological responses to exercise manifest into a conscious desire to disengage from endurance activities, which conflicts with deliberative goal pursuit. This conflict explains significant variation in the ability to physically endure.

The aim will be met by achieving the following specific objectives:

O1. Establish concurrency between motivational parameters and important metabolic and physiological responses to endurance activity.

O2. Establish the causal role of the metabolic and physiological response to exercise in shaping motivational parameters and subsequent endurance performance.

The significance of this project rests in the basic scientific understanding of motivation under physiological strain, and the future translation of this knowledge to enhance human endurance capability. Understanding how physiology and motivation interact will lead to significant developments in any scientific field relevant to human performance. We will use laboratory-based cycling ergometry and a variety of quantitative methods to meet the project objectives.

How to apply:

All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select ' Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences'. Please quote the advertised reference number SSEHS/IT in your application. To avoid delays in processing your application please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.

Entry requirements:

A MSc (or equivalent) in sport science/psychology/physiology or a related subject. It is not expected that the candidate demonstrates a high degree of knowledge in both physiology and psychology, but an interest in their interplay is essential. Proficiency in quantitative research methods, and confidence to learn advanced statistical techniques.

English language requirements:

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

Start date: January 2022, April 2022, July 2022

Reference number: SSEHS/IT.