Movement variability and feedback effects associated with various equipment combinations in golf

Applications are invited for the following DfE CAST studentship (Co-operative Awards in Science and Technology). The project available is in the Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Institute and is tenable in the Faculty of Life and Health Sciences at the Jordanstown Campus and at The R&A, St Andrews, Scotland.

Project Summary:

Biomechanical analysis is applied in many golf studies in an attempt to gain a better understanding of the swing mechanics involved in the execution of successful strokes. Recently, movement variability in the golf swing of golfers has received scientific attention (for example, Betzler et al., 2012, Horan at al., 2011) with results showing some key body movement variability trends, but with recognition of the need to explore the causal relationship between neuromotor variability and shot outcome measures for golfers of both genders and across a range of handicaps. This project seeks to build on previous published work and on-going studies by our research team to develop our understanding of the relationship between movement variability, feedback and performance via a longitudinal study within the context of golf. It is anticipated that the scientific findings will not only inform the governing bodies of golf, but also the knowledge and practices of both clinicians and coaches with further potential impact on other sports. Aspects such as player variation between/ across sessions and variability within sessions may be assessed together with the development of methods used to quantify a player’s performance using both temporal and spatial methods.

The student will analyse the body movement variability, variability in clubhead presentation to the ball, and the resulting ball impact location on the club face and resulting shot outcomes associated with feedback for a range of golfers of different ability using discrete single test sessions and repeated tests.

Entrance Requirements:

Candidates should have ordinary UK residence to be eligible for both fees and maintenance. Non-UK residents who hold ordinary EU residence may also apply, but if successful will receive fees only. All applicants should hold a first or upper second class Honours degree (including substantive biomechanics theory and practical content) in Sports Science, Technology/ Engineering, Mathematics, or a related discipline. Applications will be considered on a competitive basis with regard to the candidate’s qualifications, skills experience and interests. Successful candidates will enrol as of January 2018, on a full-time programme of research studies leading to the award of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.

The studentship will comprise fees together with an annual stipend of £15,553 and will be awarded for a period of up to three years subject to satisfactory progress.

If you wish to discuss your proposal or receive advice on the research project please contact: Professor Eric Wallace, tel: 028 9036 6614, email: [Email Address Removed]

Procedure
For more information on applying go to ulster.ac.uk/research
Apply online ulster.ac.uk/applyonline


The closing date for receipt of completed applications is November 30th, 2017

Interviews will be held on 15th December 2017 at The R&A, Allan Robertson House, Kingsbarns, St Andrews KY16 8QD