MRes Studentship

Birmingham City Football Club University of Birmingham

Invisible Monitoring of Football Players Across Varying Microcycle Structures

Birmingham City Football Club (BCFC), in collaboration with the University of Birmingham, is pleased to offer a fully funded MRes studentship in applied performance science within an elite football environment.

This opportunity combines postgraduate research with hands on applied experience, supporting the delivery of the performance science programme at Birmingham City FC. Applied duties will be primarily undertaken with the Men's First Team squad, with research also potentially involving Academy Professional Development Phase (PDP) players.

The studentship is funded for one academic year, subject to satisfactory performance in both the MRes programme and the applied role. UK home rate tuition fees (£5,500) will be fully covered.

Role Overview

The purpose of this role is to deliver high quality applied research that supports the optimisation of monitoring and performance provision for elite football players. The findings will contribute to the development of an evidence based, data informed performance programme within professional football.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be required to:

• Plan, conduct, and complete an MRes research programme focused on the invisible monitoring of football players across varying microcycle structures
• Engage in a structured personal development programme aligned with the competencies required to deliver elite performance support in professional football
• Assist in the delivery of the BCFC performance science system, including:
  • Performance testing
  • Data collection, management, and administration
  • Delivery of performance development sessions
  • Attend selected training sessions, matches, and training camps where required
  • Fulfil all academic, professional, and personal requirements associated with:
    • The role of a trainee practitioner within an elite football environment

The Candidate Knowledge & Experience

• Strong theoretical understanding, evidenced by a good academic record
• Background in sports science, strength and conditioning, or a related discipline
• Practical experience working with athletes in a performance environment
• Experience within professional or academy football is highly desirable

Education & Qualifications

• BSc (Hons) in Sports Science, Strength & Conditioning, or a related field (essential)

Personal Attributes

• Strong work ethic with excellent interpersonal skills
• Adaptable and resilient, with a positive approach to challenge
• Excellent time management skills to balance applied and academic demands
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Self motivated and committed to high professional standards
• Passionate about delivering high quality performance support in elite football

Equality, Diversity & Safeguarding

Birmingham City Football Club is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be required to complete appropriate safeguarding training and undergo the relevant background checks.

BCFC is an Equal Opportunities and Disability Confident employer. We welcome applications from all sectors of the community and assess candidates solely on merit. Reasonable adjustments can be made to the recruitment or interview process upon request.