Masters Compare - Find your perfect masters course.
Masters Compare - Find your perfect masters course.
Deadline: 13 May 2026
North West, All England
The accuracy and precision of opto-electronic 3D motion capture systems created a global shift towards lab-based biomechanical analysis over the last 30 years. With the advent of AI and machine learning new video-based technologies are becoming increasingly available to analyse athlete’s movement in their competitive environment, marking a shift away from the laboratory. FIFA have indeed implemented this type of skeletal tracking system into their Video Assistant Referee (VAR) process by adopting Semi-Automated Offside Detection (SAOD) technology. Whilst this is a very specific application to aid referee decision-making there are many other potential applications for this type of technology and data.
The ability to capture the detailed movement of 22 players and officials around the entire pitch and over the full duration of the match takes the landscape of biomechanical analysis into a new era. Given the size of the calibrated area and unscripted movements during a football match there are a number of questions relating to the accuracy of this kinematic data, and this forms the basis of this research programme. This project has the potential to redefine the future of biomechanical analysis in sport, validating FIFA approved skeletal tracking systems and exploring the potential for other applications of the data.
The project forms part of an exciting new research and innovation partnership between Manchester Metropolitan University and FIFA’s Innovation Department. This is a full-time, funded PhD opportunity open to home students only.
Project aims and objectives
The overarching aim of this project is to develop new, scientifically valid applications of skeletal data extracted from video-based skeletal tracking for use in football.
Project Objectives
The qualifications, skills, knowledge and experience applicants should have for this project, in addition to our standard entry requirements.
The PhD researcher will be embedded within Manchester Metropolitan University’s Institute of Sport, joining a growing doctoral community, as well as within FIFA’s Innovation Department, involved in the applied research to assist decision making in elite soccer match officials.
As such, applicants should have:
Essential
Desirable
Only home students can apply. Tuition fees will be covered for the duration of the three-year award, which is £5,006 for the year 2025/26.
The student will receive a standard stipend payment for the duration of the award. These payments are set at a level determined by the UKRI, currently £20,780 for the academic year 2025/26.
Interested applicants should contact Dr Phil Graham Smith ([email protected]) for an informal discussion.
To apply, you will need to complete the online application form for a full-time PhD in Sports & Exercise Science
Please complete the Doctoral Project Applicant Form, and include your CV and a covering letter to demonstrate how your skills and experience map to the aims and objectives of the project, the area of research and why you see this area as being of importance and interest.
Please upload these documents in the supporting documents section of the University’s Admissions Portal.
Applications closing date: 13 May 2026
Expected start date: October 2026
Please quote the reference: SciEng-MW-October 2026-27-Gait Characteristics
Only home students
Think more. Think Manchester Met. At Manchester Metropolitan University, we pride ourselves on creating a warm, engaging and suppor...
Thu 26 Mar 2026