PhD in Data Science and Applied Sport Science for Periodisation Modelling Curtin University in Canada

PhD opportunity at Curtin University in data science and applied sport science, focused on formalising periodisation for elite performance. The project, titled “Structuring the Cycle: A Data Science Framework for Formalising Periodisation in Applied Sport Science”, aims to build a data-driven, testable framework for training-load planning and validation across multiple sports.

The research combines temporal modelling, feature engineering, constraint-based scheduling, and iterative development approaches such as CRISP-DM. It will evaluate the framework using historical training and performance data from four cohorts: weightlifting, swimming, rowing, and Paralympic cycling. The project is designed to bridge the gap between sport science theory and computational planning methods.

Supervisory team: Associate Professor Dale Chapman, Associate Professor Ritu Gupta, and Professor G. Gregory Haff. The post highlights strong expertise across applied sport science, data science, and periodisation theory.

Eligibility: preferred candidates hold an honours or master's degree in Sport Science, Data Science, or Applied Mathematics. Applicants from sport science should have strong quantitative/programming skills (e.g. Python, R, or CPLEX), while applicants from data science should have applied knowledge of sport science and periodisation. Interdisciplinary research ability is essential, and applicants must meet Curtin University PhD entry requirements.

Funding: eligible candidates may be considered for an RTP Scholarship. The opportunity is open to domestic and international applicants, although domestic students are preferred because the scholarship process is highly competitive. Internship opportunities may also be available through partner organisations including Hockey Australia, Australian Cycling, and the Fremantle Football Club.

Application window: Expressions of Interest are open during the Central Scholarship round from 1–31 July 2026. Interested applicants should contact A/Prof Dale Chapman and submit an EOI after reviewing the full project details.