Call for Applications: Research on Performance Footwear

SPEED & SPIRIT is what we look for in our candidates, defined by some simple values that inspire us to BE DRIVEN in our performance, BE VIBRANT in our sporting legacy, BE TOGETHER in our team spirit, and BE YOU to let our individual talent and experience shine. Applying for a job at PUMA is easy and all genders are welcome. Simply click APPLY ONLINE and follow the steps to upload your application.

YOUR MISSION:

Overview:

The PUMA NITRO Lab is seeking original research proposals focused on performance footwear.

This project presents an exciting opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research with real-world applications in the sports industry. Areas of interest include performance footwear in running, track & field, basketball, and soccer. Specific topics include but are not limited to:

• Biomechanical understanding of individual or gender responses to performance footwear
• Novel characterization of footwear properties
• Novel modeling and simulation of performance footwear properties
• Footwear beyond the limits of the World Athletics rules

Key details:

• Funding: The successful applicant will receive funding based on project scope and duration.
• Resources provided: PUMA will supply footwear and/or material samples necessary to complete the project. The selected candidate will receive ongoing support and collaborate closely with PUMA’s sport science and research team.
• Timeline: The research project should be no longer than one year.

YOUR TALENT:

Eligibility:

• Applicants must be enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program in a relevant field (e.g., sports science, biomechanics, kinesiology, engineering).
• Strong background in research methods and data analysis.
• Interest in footwear technology and its impact on athletic performance.

Application process:

• Cover Letter: Brief explanation of your interest in the project and how your background aligns with the research goals (max. 1/2 page).
• Research Proposal: An overview of the proposed project, including rationale for proposed research, hypothesis, methods, and expected outcomes. Please include details on what footwear/materials PUMA would support with, along with a project timeline (max. 2 pages).
• References: Contact information for one academic referee.

Application deadline: March 30th, 2025

Submission: Kindly do not click on "Apply Online" as stated above but please send your application package to performancelab(at)puma.com with the subject line “Application for Research on Performance Footwear”.

Selection process: Applications will be assessed based on novelty of the research, identification of gaps in existing knowledge, and overall quality of the research proposal. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview to meet with PUMA’s research team and discuss the proposal.

Contact information: For inquiries, please contact performancelab(at)puma.com.

PUMA supports over 19,000 employees across 120+ countries. The PUMA Group owns the brand PUMA, Cobra Golf and stichd, and is headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Germany.

PUMA provides equal opportunities for all job applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, or disability. Equality for all is one of the core principles at PUMA and we do not tolerate any form of harassment or discrimination.