PhD Position in Load Management in Team Sport Athletes
The Norwegian School of Sport Sciences (NIH) is offering a three-year PhD fellowship in Load Management in Team Sport Athletes, starting August 2026. NIH is the leading institution for sport science education and research in the Nordic countries, with a vibrant campus in Oslo and state-of-the-art laboratories. The Department of Physical Performance focuses on exercise physiology, biomechanics, and technology, and is responsible for research and teaching in areas related to physical performance, optimal training, technique, and rehabilitation.
This PhD project centers on the complexity of training load and athlete response, aiming to understand the dynamic and non-linear relationships between training load and individual responses in team sport athletes. The research will involve collecting and analyzing longitudinal training and performance data, including external load (tracking data), internal load (rating of perceived exertion), and performance or injury-related outcomes. The candidate will actively participate in all aspects of the project, from planning and study design to participant recruitment, data collection, analysis, and dissemination of findings. Collaboration with NIH researchers and external partners is expected, and international research exchange opportunities are available.
The project will be supervised by Associate Professor Live S. Luteberget. The successful candidate must formally apply for enrolment in the PhD program at NIH, and employment is conditional upon admission. The position offers a starting salary of NOK 550,800 per year, with benefits including pension, loans, and insurance through the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund. NIH provides excellent training facilities, corporate sports teams, and opportunities for exercise during working hours.
Applicants must hold a two-year master’s degree in Sport Sciences or equivalent with a grade B or better. Experience in human studies, scientific writing, performance testing, and handling complex datasets is advantageous. Programming experience is not required but willingness to learn is valued. Strong collaboration skills, innovative problem-solving, and proficiency in English are essential. The candidate must be able to complete the project within the three-year fellowship period.
To apply, submit your application and attachments via the electronic recruitment system. Required documents include a cover letter, CV, diploma and transcripts, and any relevant publications or references. Applications must be written in English or a Scandinavian language. Suitable candidates will be invited for an interview, and the deadline for applications is May 30th, 2026. For further information, contact Associate Professor Live S. Luteberget at [email protected].
NIH values inclusion and diversity, and encourages applicants with disabilities, gaps in CV, or immigrant backgrounds to apply. The institution offers a supportive and active working environment, with proximity to public transport and excellent facilities. Employment is subject to state employee conditions and mandatory membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund.
