PhD Position in Determinants of Human Performance in Running

ETH Zurich; Zürich; On-site; CHF 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

ETH Zurich invites applications for a PhD position examining determinants of human performance in running. The project combines laboratory and field studies to identify new performance determinants, test ideas in longitudinal training, and publish results.

You will design studies, establish collaborations, present at national and international conferences, and co-supervise BSc and MSc students, contributing to an interdisciplinary sports science program.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Health Sciences and Technology or related field.
• Strong biomechanics background with hands-on testing experience.
• Solid foundation in exercise physiology.
• R and Python coding skills; solid statistics knowledge.
• Proactive, inquisitive, self-motivated and team-oriented.
• Excellent communication and academic credentials.
• Experience in coaching at different levels is welcome.
• Proficiency in English and German at C1 or fast learning commitment.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute and publish studies in the field of determinants of human performance during running.
• Establish new collaborations within and outside the ETH Domain leveraging the new technologies available at ETH in sports science research.
• Present your work at national and international conferences.
• Support teaching activities and co-supervise BSc and MSc students.

Skills

Biomechanics

Exercise physiology

English (C1)

German (C1)

Communication skills

Team-oriented

Coaching experience

Education

Master’s degree in Health Sciences and Technology, Human Movement Sciences, Life Sciences, or Human Medicine

Tools

R

Python

Statistics software

Job description

PhD Position in Determinants of Human Performance in Running

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

Project background

Human performance during running events is multifactorial. While key drives of performance have been known for a long time, there is growing appreciation for the more nuanced aspects that determine performance in different events. The goal of this PhD will be to analyze running events of different nature and identify new potential determinants of performance, optmize their testing and explore its potential modification via different interventions. Applicants are highly encouraged to bring their own ideas to the table and will have the chance to work together with our network of collaborators to contribute towards new improvements in athletic performance.

Job description

You will design studies involving experimental investigations in the laboratory and in the field to uncover and validate new determinants of running performance. You will be given the opportunity to directly test your ideas using longitudinal training studies. Specific responsibilities include:

• Design, execute and publish studies in the field of determinants of human performance during running
• Establish new collaborations within and outside the ETH Domain leveraging the new technologies available at ETH in sports science research
• Present your work at national and International conferences
• Support teaching activities and co-supervise BSc and MSc students

Profile

• Master’s degree in Health Sciences and Technology, Human Movement Sciences, Life Sciences, or Human Medicine
• Solid background in biomechanics, including hands‑on testing experience
• Good foundation of exercise pyhsiology
• R and /or Phyton coding skills, solid foundation in statistics
• Proactive and inquisitive personality, eager to exploring new approaches, self‑motivated and team‑oriented
• Excellent communication skills and academic qualifications
• Experience in coaching at different levels is welcome
• Proficiency in English (spoken and written, C1 level) and German (spoken and written, C1 level), or strong commitment to learn quickly

We offer

We offer a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment with access to state-of-the‑art laboratory facilities and technologies. ETH Zurich is a family‑friendly employer offering excellent working conditions. Look forward to an exciting and inspiring work environment with a rich cultural diversity.

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate‑neutral future.

Curious? So are we.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting‑edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.