PhD Studentship - Bio-Banding

Brentford Football Club; Isleworth; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 30,000

Job description

Job Title: PhD Studentship – A holistic approach to the use of bio-banding to support the development of Academy football players

Department: Research & Insights

Reporting: Consultant Head of Research & Insights

Location: Training Ground – Jersey Road

Salary: The studentship is offered for three years and provides tuition fees at the UK rate (£5,500) and an annual stipend of £20,780 per year. International students are welcome to apply for this position but should note that they will only receive a fee waiver at the UK rate (£5,500) and will be required to self-fund the remaining fees.

Brentford FC is a bit different to other Premier League football clubs. We put our fans first, we are a true community club and while we are financially sustainable, we are not afraid to take calculated risks. We take huge pride in our environment and culture within the Club which focuses on development, inclusion and not being afraid to think differently.

Being progressive, humble and respectful while sticking together as one team across the Club guides how we work and the decisions we make each day.

We also firmly believe that a diverse workforce is a better workforce which will help us develop ideas, solve problems and ultimately grow Brentford FC.

We play in a brand-new stadium, 15 minutes from Heathrow in vibrant west London.

Come join us.

Inclusion Statement

Brentford FC is an organisation which values and is passionate about diversity and inclusivity. We welcome and encourage applications from qualified candidates, including those from underrepresented groups – such as those from ethnically diverse backgrounds, women, those from the LGBTQ+ community and those with disabilities. Should you require any workplace accommodations (also known as ‘reasonable adjustments’), you will have the opportunity to let us know at appropriate points in the hiring process.

Safeguarding Statement

Brentford FC is committed to equality, the safeguarding and welfare of all children and adults at risk. This responsibility is shared by all staff and volunteers at the club, safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Staff will be required to undertake regular safeguarding training to enable and reinforce a proactive approach to safeguarding. This role requires the post holder to apply all relevant policies and uphold the club’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable people to ensure a safe environment for all.

The Opportunity

Several exciting opportunities have arisen to undertake a fully funded applied PhD studentship in conjunction with the Cardiff Metropolitan University and Brentford FC. The purpose of these roles is to combine postgraduate research with the development of practitioner-based skills through assisting in the delivery of the performance strategy at Brentford FC. The positions will be funded for a 3-year period subject to the satisfactory progress of the individual in the practical role and PhD. The placements will conduct research across the 1^st Team squad and the Academy.

Key responsibilities

• To plan and complete a programme of research suitable for a PhD related to football performance.
• Engage in a programme of applied sport, and coaching science related training associated with the development of relevant competencies for applied practice within elite football.
• Assist in the delivery of the club-based performance strategy, such as data collection, data management and analysis, support regular performance testing, and associated interpretation and reporting of results. Attendance at selected games and training camps, if and when required.
• To fulfil the academic, professional, and personal requirements associated with the completion of tasks linked to doctoral level research and the role of a trainee practitioner in elite football.

The purpose of this PhD is to undertake a series of high-quality studies, which establish a theoretically informed performance programme in elite football, identifying areas to optimise provision for elite football players.

The Candidate

Successful candidates will have a strong academic track record that is relevant to the research area of interest, together with some experience of working in an applied performance setting. Experience of working in football is highly desirable.

Education and Qualifications

A good BSc (Hons) in sports science, coaching science, strength and conditioning, or related field is essential. Desirable: postgraduate qualification in sport science, coaching science, strength and conditioning, or related field.

Personal Attributes

Experience of conducting applied research in football or other elite sports. Engaging personality and able person with the ability to adapt to fresh challenges. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal with the ability to manage time effectively and efficiently to achieve all aspects of the role. Good team player, and the ability to work on own initiative. Flexible approach to working hours is a must.

To apply for this opportunity, please submit the following:

• A fully completed application form
• Your CV (max 2 pages)
• Your cover letter (max 1 page)
• Your research proposal (max 2 pages + references)

Closing Date for Applications: Friday 18 April 2025

1^st Stage Interviews: w/c 5 May 2025

Anticipate Start Date: 1 August 2025