Fully Funded PhD in Sport Science and Nutrition on Athlete Development Pathways in Intellectual Disability Sport Maynooth University in Ireland

Maynooth University’s Department of Sport Science and Nutrition is recruiting a fully funded, full-time PhD candidate for a 4-year studentship in collaboration with Special Olympics Ireland.

The project is titled “Athlete Development Pathways in Intellectual Disability Sport: A Mixed-Methods Study of Participation, Development, and System Structures in Special Olympics Ireland.” This research sits at the intersection of sport science, nutrition, inclusive sport participation, athlete development, mixed-methods research, and sport policy/system structures.

The successful candidate will be based at Maynooth University and will work closely with Special Olympics Ireland, gaining experience in athlete development in intellectual disability sport, national sport system structures, inclusive sport participation and policy, and national/international competition environments.

Funding is clearly stated as full stipend plus fees covered for the 4-year PhD. The post is therefore a funded doctoral studentship rather than a postdoctoral or master’s opportunity.

Informal enquiries may be directed to [email protected]. The closing date is 1 July 2026 at 17:00. Interested applicants should use the linked application page for full details and submission instructions.