PhD in Learning from Legacy: Spirit of 2012 Knowledge Bank for Sport Event Design and Impact Loughborough University in United Kingdom

PhD opportunity at Loughborough University in Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences focused on sport event management, social impact of events, knowledge exchange, and event design and evaluation.

The project, Learning from Legacy: Using the Spirit of 2012 Knowledge Bank to Strengthen Sport Event Design and Impact, explores how the Spirit of 2012 Knowledge Bank can be used as a dynamic tool to improve evidence use across the UK and international sport event ecosystem. The research connects with live projects and strategic partners, including UK Sport, and aims to strengthen how evaluation evidence, grey literature, and stakeholder insight are mobilised for decision-making, policy, and practice.

The PhD is structured around three phases: a scoping review of the Knowledge Bank, stakeholder co-design with event managers/evaluators/funders, and pilot testing of a triangulation framework in real-world event planning and evaluation contexts. The project may involve participatory action research, digital innovations, and peer learning networks.

Eligibility: applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 or first-class undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a social science, computer science, or cognate discipline. A merit or distinction at postgraduate level would be desirable. Experience in event management and/or relevant research methods is advantageous.

Funding: this opportunity includes a tuition fee waiver for UK students only. No stipend is available.

Deadline: 6 August 2026. Start dates listed on the project page include October 2026, February 2027, and July 2027.

Interested candidates should review the project page and apply online through Loughborough University. You may also contact the supervisors to discuss the project and application process.