PhD Research Studentship – Supporting Return-to-Play and Injury Risk Reduction in Premier League Soccer Players (Brentford FC & Cardiff Metropolitan University) Cardiff Metropolitan University in United Kingdom

This fully funded PhD studentship, offered jointly by Brentford Football Club and Cardiff Metropolitan University, focuses on supporting return-to-play and injury risk reduction in Premier League soccer players. The project aims to combine rigorous postgraduate research with hands-on practitioner experience, assisting in the delivery of Brentford FC's performance strategy. Practitioner duties will primarily involve working with senior squads, while research may extend to younger age groups within the club.

The successful candidate will plan and complete a research programme suitable for a PhD, directly related to football performance. The role includes engaging in applied sport and coaching science training, developing competencies for practice within elite football, and assisting with club-based performance strategies such as regular screening, rehabilitation monitoring, data management, analysis, and reporting. Attendance at selected games and training camps may be required, providing valuable exposure to elite sport environments.

The project is designed to establish a theoretically informed injury risk reduction and return-to-play programme for elite football, identifying areas to optimise provision for players. Candidates will be expected to conduct high-quality studies, with more specific project details provided to those invited for interview.

Applicants must have a strong academic track record relevant to the research area, with experience in applied performance settings highly desirable. Essential qualifications include a good BSc (Hons) in physiotherapy, sports rehabilitation, sports therapy, sports conditioning, or a related field. A postgraduate qualification in sports physiotherapy, sports therapy, sports rehabilitation, or a related field is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate activity related to gaining accreditation within a professional body relevant to sport physiotherapy or rehabilitation. Experience in elite sport, preferably football, is highly valued, along with excellent communication skills, adaptability, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

The studentship package includes a three-year bursary plus tuition fees at the UK rate. The stipend for 2026/27 is £21,805, in line with RCUK rates, with subsequent years matching annual RCUK updates. Applications should be submitted via the Brentford FC careers portal, including a CV, cover letter, and research proposal aligned with the project theme. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interview, and informal enquiries can be directed to Ryland Morgans at Cardiff Metropolitan University.

The closing date for applications is March 25, 2026, with first stage interviews likely to take place during the week commencing April 20, 2026. This opportunity is ideal for candidates seeking to advance their research and practitioner skills in elite football, with direct involvement in a Premier League club and academic supervision from Cardiff Metropolitan University.