PhD Position in Determinants of Human Running Performance
Explore novel factors influencing athletic performance through experimental and longitudinal studies in sports science.
Best for:Best for researchers with a master’s in biomechanics, exercise physiology, or sports science, seeking to advance athletic performance research through interdisciplinary lab/fieldwork.
Overview
This PhD position at ETH Zürich’s Exercise Physiology Lab focuses on uncovering new determinants of human running performance. The candidate will design and execute laboratory and field-based studies, optimize testing methods, and investigate performance-enhancing interventions. Collaborations with external networks and presentations at conferences are integral. The role also includes supporting teaching and supervising undergraduate students. Applicants should have a master’s degree in health sciences, biomechanics, or related fields, with hands-on testing experience and proficiency in statistical analysis and programming (R/Python).
What you'll do
- Design and execute experimental studies in laboratory and field settings to identify new determinants of running performance
- Optimize testing methods for performance evaluation and intervention validation
- Conduct longitudinal training studies to explore performance modifications
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present research at national/international conferences
- Collaborate with internal and external networks to advance athletic performance research
- Support teaching activities and co-supervise BSc and MSc students
- Leverage state-of-the-art technologies available at ETH Zürich for sports science research
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in Health Sciences and Technology, Human Movement Sciences, Life Sciences, or Human Medicine
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English (spoken and written, C1 level) and German (spoken and written, C1 level), or strong commitment to learn quickly
Instruction: English
- Solid background in biomechanics with hands-on testing experience
- Strong foundation in exercise physiology
- Proficiency in R and/or Python programming
- Solid statistical analysis skills
- Excellent written and spoken English (C1 level)
- Excellent written and spoken German (C1 level) or strong commitment to learn quickly
- No explicit nationality or residency restrictions mentioned
- No age limits specified
- No prior experience caps mentioned
Funding & terms
How to apply
Submit an online application through ETH Zürich’s portal with the following documents: a motivation letter (max. 1 page), a research proposal (max. 2 pages), a CV with two academic references, degree certificates, academic transcripts, and copies of BSc and MSc theses. If the MSc degree is not yet completed, provide a written statement from the supervisor confirming expected completion date and a draft thesis.
- Motivation letter (max. 1 page)
- Research proposal (max. 2 pages)
- Curriculum vitae with contact details of two academic references
- Degree certificates and academic transcripts
- Copies of BSc and MSc theses (if possible and not confidential)
- Written statement from supervisor (if MSc not yet completed)
Contact
Fernando G. Beltrami· Lead of the Running Performance Group
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