Fully-funded PhD: Biomechanical characteristics of elite Olympic and Paralympic swimmers

This PhD presents a rare opportunity to conduct applied research with world-leading swimmers and coaches while simultaneously developing the high-level knowledge and skills necessary to work as a sport scientist within a world-class programme. 

Manchester Metropolitan University and AquaticsGB have a shared vision to develop the AquaticsGB Manchester Performance Centre into a world-leading centre for aquatic excellence. This PhD will contribute to the technical development of the GB Olympic and Paralympic swimmers based at the centre and beyond. 

The successful candidate will be based at the AquaticsGB Manchester Performance Centre, adjacent to the University’s Institute of Sport, and will conduct research specifically directed towards answering performance-related questions that will lead to enhanced training and performance. 

The PhD will have a strong technical focus and will comprise longitudinal and cross-sectional studies utilising appropriate scientific methods. 

The University and AquaticsGB have a range of tools for collecting data in an aquatic environment, including underwater video systems (2D and 3D motion analysis), Towing ergometer (drag force analysis) and Speedreel (instantaneous speed analysis). 

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to collaborate with other discipline specialists within the AquaticsGB Sport Science and Sports Medicine team throughout the project.

Project aims and objectives

The aim of the PhD is to improve understanding of the technical factors that limit the performance of elite Olympic and Paralympic swimmers, enhance the knowledge of elite coaches, and improve training and racing practices.

The objectives are:

• Complete longitudinal and cross-sectional studies that address sport-driven performance questions.
• Disseminate project findings to coaches and other key stakeholders using a structured and systematic process.
• Undertake a formal evaluation of the project impact on coach and swimmer behaviours and practices via, for example, questionnaires, interviews, focus groups, and training and competition data analysis.