PhD Studentship: Sports Clothing: Functionality, perception and preference (LDS280518)

When buying sports clothing, consumers are limited in judging the actual performance of the garment to first impressions. There are multiple facets of hand feel and skin feel over the body that are not well understood. Is it possible to draw links between perceived preferences and the functional performance of a garment? A better understanding about how much hand feel/skin feel on the body contributes to an individual’s preference is needed. What are the impacts of gender, age and geographical location? Research into methods for evaluating preference and the dimensions of hand feel/skin feel sensation is very limited. Furthermore, linking objective measures of surface characteristics of materials to subjective sensations and in turn preference will be of great interest.

The project is supported by adidas AG and the candidate will develop close links with them, including an annual 3 month placement as well as undertaking internationally based field studies. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to investigate both the basic scientific principles that underpin thermal perceptions as well as developing novel applications for their findings. Candidates will draw upon current research in cognitive psychology, physiology, sensory interaction and thermoregulation to direct their research. The final target will be to directly implement the results of the research into the development of sports clothing.

Applications from a wide range of disciplines are welcomed, including, ergonomics, physiology, psychology, sports and exercise science or other life sciences. A background in environmental ergonomics is not essential,; but an enthusiasm to pursue research in this area is desired. Candidates will have access to a wide range of ‘cutting edge’ facilities at the Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre. Candidates will have the opportunity to develop a range of research skills and techniques for the assessment of thermo-physiological and perceptual human responses.

Loughborough University
Loughborough University is a top-ten rated university in England for research intensity (REF2014) and an outstanding 66% of the work of Loughborough’s academic staff who were eligible to be submitted to the REF was judged as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’, compared to a national average figure of 43%.

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 Graduate School, 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/

Find out more
General information about the Design School and Environmental Ergonomics Research Centre can be found at http://www.lboro.ac.uk/EERC
Entry requirements:
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, a first Honours degree (or equivalent; a 2:1 degree qualification would be the minimum) in a relevant. A relevant Master’s degree and/or experience in environmental ergonomics or environmental physiology / psychology will be an advantage.

Contact details
Name: Dr Simon Hodder
Email address: [Email Address Removed]
Telephone number: 01509 223685

How to apply
All applications should be made online at http://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/apply/research/. Under Loughborough Design School

Please quote reference : LDS280518

Application details
Reference number: LDS280518
Start date: 01/10/2018
Closing date: 06/07/2018
Interview date: July