Maynooth University Doctoral Scholarship

The Department of Sport Science and Nutrition at Maynooth University invites applications for a fully funded PhD position under the Maynooth University Doctoral Scholarship Scheme. The project, titled 'Athlete Development Pathways in Intellectual Disability Sport: A Mixed-Methods Examination of Development, Participation, and System Structures in Special Olympics Ireland,' offers a unique opportunity to conduct impactful research in partnership with Special Olympics Ireland (SOI).

SOI is a leading sports organisation dedicated to providing children and adults with intellectual disabilities opportunities for year-round training and competition across a variety of Olympic-type sports. The organisation fosters physical fitness, confidence, social connection, and community inclusion, enabling athletes to demonstrate courage, experience joy, and share their skills both on and off the sports field.

This PhD project will deliver the first in-depth, multi-level exploration of athlete, family, and stakeholder experiences within the SOI system. Employing a mixed-methods design with a strong longitudinal focus, the research will investigate how athletes with intellectual disabilities experience sports participation and progression, how families perceive the developmental and community impact of SOI affiliation, and how organisational structures facilitate or constrain engagement across stakeholders. The project aims to generate evidence-based recommendations to strengthen sports pathways for athletes with intellectual disabilities, enhance stakeholder experience, and support inclusive sport policy and practice both nationally and internationally.

The Maynooth University Doctoral Scholarship provides full funding for four years, commencing September 2026 and running through August 2030. The award includes a student stipend of €25,000 per annum and annual tuition fees support, ensuring financial security for the successful candidate throughout their doctoral studies.

Applicants should submit a personal statement (maximum 3 pages) clearly outlining their suitability for the PhD, how they meet the essential and desirable eligibility criteria, and their motivations for undertaking this specific project. The statement should demonstrate an understanding of inclusive sport and athlete development pathways, as well as the capacity to manage a mixed-methods, longitudinal research project. A curriculum vitae detailing academic qualifications, relevant research experience, skills, and any applied work in sport and/or community settings is required. Copies of final transcripts for relevant degrees and names/contact details of two academic referees must be provided.

All eligible candidates will be considered for open positions. Applicants may be shortlisted for interview and, if so, will be contacted directly by the Department. Late applications will not be considered.

The closing date for applications is 1st July 2026. Applications should be submitted directly to Dr Liam Sweeney at [email protected] by no later than 5.00 pm on 1st July 2026. Please title the subject of your email application as ‘MU Doctoral Scholarship - Department of Sport Science and Nutrition 2026’. For informal inquiries, contact Dr Liam Sweeney via email.

This position is ideal for candidates passionate about disability studies, sport development, and inclusive policy, offering a chance to contribute to the advancement of intellectual disability sport in Ireland and beyond.