Phd Studentship %E2%80%93Learning Decision Making at Brentford Fc

The Opportunity Several exciting opportunities have arisen to undertake a fully funded applied PhD studentship in conjunction with Brentford FC and Cardiff Metropolitan University. 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. Practitioner duties will primarily be with senior squads, while research may be conducted with these squads or younger age groups. The positions will be funded for a 3-year period subject to the satisfactory progress of the individual in the practical role and PhD. Candidates will have their tuition fees covered at the UK rate (£5,500) and will receive an annual stipend linked to UKRI rates (£21,383). Brentford Football Club and Cardiff Metropolitan University Fully-Funded PhD Studentship – How Premier League soccer players acquire and transfer decision-making skills from practice to competition 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 psychology or 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. More specific details on each project will be shared with those candidates invited to interview. 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. Practitioner knowledge: • Sport psychology, sports science, coaching science, strength and conditioning, fitness, or related experience in elite sport. • Sound knowledge and practical experience in elite sport, preferably football. Experience of engaging with athletes/players within an elite sport/football environment. Ideally, this experience should be within the context of sports science, coaching science, fitness, or related activities. Education and Qualifications • A good BSc (Hons) in psychology, sport and exercise psychology, sports science, coaching science, or related field is essential. • Desirable: postgraduate qualification in sports psychology, sport science, coaching science, or related field. • Demonstrate activity related to the ability to gain accreditation within a professional body relevant to sport psychology, sport and exercise science or sports coaching. 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. A flexible approach to working hours is a must. To apply for this opportunity, please submit the following: • Your CV (max 2 pages) • Your cover letter (max 1 page) • A research proposal (max 2 pages + references) The proposal should align to the research theme and include a brief literature review related to the specific project area, with an outline of the studies that you would propose to complete to address the focus of the PhD programme. Note – applicants invited to interview will be asked to submit copies of their degree certificates, transcripts and evidence of any other relevant qualifications in advance of interview. Given the anticipated high-volume of applications received, we will only contact those applicants who are invited to interview. For any questions about this opportunity, please contact Ryland Morgans at rmorgans@cardiffmet.ac.uk (https://pure.cardiffmet.ac.uk/en/persons/ryland-morgans) The project will also be supervised by Dr Colm Murphy https://pure.cardiffmet.ac.uk/en/persons/colm-murphy/ Closing Date for Applications: 25th March 2026 1st Stage Interviews: likely w/c 20th April 2026 General Club Accountabilities • To comply with all Club policies, including health and safety, data regulations and other legal, ethical and social requirements ...