About the Opportunity

Edge Hill University (EHU) in collaboration with Stockport County Football Club invites applications for an exciting yearlong MRes opportunity focused on the objective monitoring of physical demands across an elite Academy. The successful candidate will work directly with the sports science and medical departments, where appropriate. In this position the successful applicant will be working alongside the coaching and support staff during training and match days to aid the preparation and development of the squads. Alongside this applied work, the data collected as part of this role will inform the candidate’s MRes project, with supervision provided by academic staff at EHU. 

• About The Research Project

Previous research has considered the objective monitoring of elite football to consider internal and external loading, with implications for performance and injury. Less consideration has been given to academy players, particularly considering the age-specific use of loading thresholds, and the implications of playing across multiple age groups. This project will aim to quantify the age-specific demands of Academy football and the objective monitoring of recovery. Objective monitoring will include the collection, analysis and interpretation of GPS data in addition to other musculoskeletal profiling tools where appropriate. 

The successful applicant will be responsible for:

• Contributing to the sports science support of Academy players across all age groups
• Collation & analysis of GPS data from match-play and training
• Implementation and analysis of a match day + 2 standardised profiling battery
• Produce high quality and informative feedback for players and staff
• Contribute to the development of profiling practice within the club

Details of funding

The successful applicant will receive:

• Student fees for full-time MRes
• Travel expenses and meals provided at the training ground. 

Applicant Eligibility

This opportunity is open to UK based applicants eligible for home fees who meet the following eligibility criteria:

• a degree equivalent to UK first-class or upper second-class honours (2:1 or above) within sports science related programme (e.g. Sports Science, Sports Therapy/Rehabilitation, Sports Coaching, etc.), which included modules specifically focusing on Strength & Conditioning
• highly driven individual with a strong passion for sport and exercise science
• appropriate understanding/experience of the technical and physical aspects of Academy football
• appropriate understanding and experience of using GPS technology 
• a competent understanding of research methods, inclusive of relevant statistical procedures for quantitative research
• clean, full UK driver’s License

At Edge Hill University we value the benefits a rich and diverse workforce brings to our community and therefore welcome applications from all sections of society.

How to submit your application

In the first instance please complete the online application form via https://qpl.edgehill.ac.uk/apex_qlive/f?p=PV_ONLINE_APP:101::::APP:APP_COURSE_INSTANCE:906639306

Once you have done this, please send the following items in one email to researchdegreeadmissions@edgehill.ac.uk quoting the project title in the subject of the email:

• a copy of your research proposal, aligned with the aims of this project, that should not exceed 1,000 words.
• a downloaded copy of your application form.
• a cover letter/personal statement outlining your suitability and research interests.
• a full academic CV (maximum of three A4 pages, using size 12 font) which includes the contact details of two referees.
• a copy of your qualification certificates and passport.

Key contacts:

Please think about the support you need and contact one of the below directly:

• Research project and supervision questions: please contact Professor Matt Greig (matt.greig@edgehill.ac.uk)
• MRes registration and qualification questions: please contact researchdegreeadmissions@edgehill.ac.uk 

Deadlines and start date.

Closing date: 31^st August 2026

Candidates invited to interview will be required to deliver a 10-minute presentation on the research project. 

The successful applicant will be required to start on the 26^th September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. This is for a full-time MRes position. 

About Us 

At Edge Hill University we believe in the life changing opportunities knowledge can create. Since 1885, we’ve been creating access to knowledge for those who may not have had the opportunity to before. 

Today, the effect we have has a far-reaching impact, not just for those who come to study here but for those who work, invest in, and live in our local communities too. So, if you’ve ever wondered if one person can make a difference, simply speak to our alumni, students, and award-winning staff.

Because for us education isn’t about how much you take in. It’s about what you take out into the world. 

Inspiring minds and changing futures since 1885, Edge Hill University is “A great success story… an institution that improves and impresses year after year” – Times Higher Education. 

Closing Date: 31 Aug 2026

Department: Academic

Salary: The successful applicant will receive: • Student fees for full-time MRes • Travel expenses and meals provided at the training ground.
Fixed Term