PhD Position: Development of a Digital Tool to Assess Safe and Environmentally Friendly Physical Activities (MSCA Doctoral Network, SUPER) Universidad Europea de Madrid in Spain

This PhD position is part of the Horizon Europe MSCA Doctoral Network, SUPER (Sustainable Sports and Physical Activity for Equity and Resilience), hosted at Universidad Europea de Madrid (UEM). The project aims to radically rethink how physical activity is promoted and practiced to address climate change, focusing on the development of a digital tool to assess safe and environmentally friendly physical activities.

The doctoral research will center on forecasting the effects of climate change on cardiorespiratory fitness in children and adolescents. The successful candidate will compile and integrate cardiorespiratory fitness data from across Europe with climate and socioeconomic data, develop predictive models to forecast future impacts, and quantify the mitigating role of physical activity. The project will result in a robust dataset, a validated forecasting model, and actionable recommendations for mitigating climate change effects through physical activity.

The position offers a unique opportunity to work within a multidisciplinary and international consortium, with secondment opportunities in industry and other European academic institutions. The candidate will be expected to publish scientific articles, present findings at conferences, and contribute to the broader SUPER project and educational activities.

Applicants must have or be completing a Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Public Health, Sports Science, Environmental Science, Data Science, Engineering), demonstrate excellent English proficiency, and possess foundational knowledge in physical activity, data analysis (R, Python), and environmental sustainability. MSCA mobility and eligibility rules apply, including not having resided in Spain for more than 12 months in the past 36 months and not already holding a doctoral degree.

The position is fully funded through the MSCA Doctoral Network, offering a competitive salary (Spain estimate: €3,833.56/month), mobility and family allowances, and a full tuition waiver. The appointment is for three years, starting October 2026, and is open to candidates available for full-time commitment.

For more information, contact Dr Borja del Pozo at [email protected]. Applications will open soon; please check the UEM website for updates and complete the required diversity form. Information sessions will be held on March 23, 2026, to provide further details about the application process and the SUPER network.