PhD Sport and Exercise

University of Chester

Sport and Exercise Sciences divides its research into two distinct groups – the Sociology of Sport and Exercise, and Applied Sport and Exercise Science. With 85% of eligible staff submitted, Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 results identified 51% of our overall research profile as ‘world-leading/internationally excellent’ and 100% of our impact case studies were deemed to be very considerable in terms of their reach and significance. We provide a resource room and a regular Research Seminar Programme to support postgraduate research students as standard. We have well qualified, research-active staff who are committed to nurturing the strong and energetic research culture they have developed over the last two decades. In addition, Sport and Exercise Sciences has strong links with many UK and European universities, whereby staff and postgraduate students are able to participate in intensive collaborative exchanges, should they wish. We also have strong research links with several external partners, including: Active Cheshire, Birkebeiner (Norway), the English Institute of Sport, St Helens Rugby League Club, Warrington Wolves Rugby League Club, the England Touch Association, GB cycling, GB squash, GB water polo, GB swimming and GB taekwondo, Premiership Rugby Union clubs, Premiership and Championship Football clubs. Facilities The sports science laboratories based at the Chester learning site are available throughout the academic year for students’ use. State-of-the-art research resources include well-equipped laboratories in the following areas: Physiology (two), Biomechanics, Performance Analysis, Strength and Conditioning and Sports. Other facilities include: floodlit 3G synthetic grass pitch, floodlit AstroTurf pitch, 60m running track, 25m heated swimming pool, fitness suite, dance studio/gymnasium, a six-badminton court sports hall, two squash courts, and rugby, hockey and soccer pitches. Research Areas We are particularly keen to hear from students who would like to research any of the following areas: The applied science of rugby (league and union) The physiology of intermittent exercise Monitoring of training load in athletes Pacing in team sports Exercise-induced muscle damage and its effect on human performance Physical activity and health Physical education Young people, sport and leisure Sport policy and development.

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