PhD Studentship Opportunity – Enhancing Judo Performance: Designing and Delivering Effective Training

PhD Studentship- Enhancing Judo Performance: Designing and Delivering Effective Training (In Partnership with University of Wolverhampton)

We are offering a four year fully funded bursary opportunity (£20,780 + fee waiver) in conjunction with GB judo for applicants interested in studying a PhD at the University of Wolverhampton. This role offers an excellent opportunity for the right candidate to coach at an elite level within an Olympic sport whilst developing applied academic skillset focussed on growing sporting understanding.

This interdisciplinary PhD project will be heavily involved in testing and monitoring, programming and planning, and delivery of coaching in elite judo, investigating how strength and conditioning (S&C) qualities translate into successful competitive performance. Rather than treating physical performance in isolation, the aim of this research will be interdisciplinary by nature to explore how athletes can transfer gains from the gym to the mat—where real-world outcomes are tested.

The project will involve collaboration with athletes, coaches, and support staff to ensure the training process is context-specific, feasible, and impactful. The research aims to shift the field from simply monitoring athletes to actively shaping performance through collaborative innovation.

Key Aims:

• Identify the Strength & Conditioning qualities most associated with successful judo actions (throws, grip dominance, transitions).
• Develop monitoring tools that capture adaptation across training and indicators of performance readiness, including physical and behavioural cues.
• Co-design and evaluate an evidence-informed intervention to optimise gym-

Click here to download the Applicant Pack

For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact:

• Prof Andrew Lane – (University of Wolverhampton) A.M.Lane2@wlv.ac.uk
• Associate Prof Ross Cloak (University of Wolverhampton) – r.cloak@wlv.ac.uk
• Chris Price (Head of Performance Support, GB Judo) – Chris.Price@uksportsinstitute.co.uk

To apply: Please email a CV and covering letter outlining your suitability for the project and how you meet the attributes listed in the Person Specification. Include the contact details of two referees.

Submit your application to: A.M.Lane2@wlv.ac.uk Please clearly indicate the reference “PhD GB Judo” in the subject line of the email and on your cover letter.

Closing Date: Midnight UK time: Sunday August 17th 2025

Selection Activities Date: Wednesday, 27 August Location: British Judo, Walsall Campus, University of Wolverhampton, Gorway Road, WS1 3BD

Candidates will be notified by Wednesday, 20 August.

Selection activities will consist of a practical coaching assessment and a desk-based interview. All activities will take place in person.

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