PhD Studentship: Biofidelic traction testing of artificial turf

This PhD focuses on the development of a novel approach to measuring the traction behaviour of artificial turf, supported by FieldTurf, a global leader in the production of artificial turf for sport. The research has the potential to make a significant and novel contribution to player-surface traction and support the development of new testing capabilities relevant to manufacturers of both artificial turf and studded footwear. It will also provide excellent employment opportunities to the researcher. 

Aims: (1) to enhance current traction testing methods to better reflect player boot-surface interactions; (2) to better understand the complex role of the surface (i.e. fibre-infill interactions) in the generation of traction forces; and (3) to advance the measurement of the boot-surface interaction forces. The project builds on previous work that has developed instrumented rotational and linear laboratory-based traction equipment, but to date stopped short of measuring actual footwear outsoles and studs on artificial turf surfaces. It will also benefit from a novel methodology to observe and measure the surface response during traction testing and it is expected that this will be further extended within the PhD. 

The successful student will join the internationally recognised Sport Surfaces Research Group, with academics and researchers working across projects in sports surface safety and performance.

The research group is part of the Sports Technology Institute with a long history of successful research collaborations with global companies and Loughborough University is currently ranked the best university in the world for sports-related subjects (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2017-2025). 

Entry requirements: 

A 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in engineering, physics, sports & exercise science or equivalent. A relevant master’s degree, or industrial experience, is desirable but not essential. 

English language requirements: 

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website. 

Funding information: 

The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £20,780 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fees. 

How to Apply: 

All applications should be made online. Under ‘Campus’, please select ‘Loughborough’ and select ‘Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering’ under ‘Programme’. Please quote the advertised reference number ‘TRACTION-SF-25’ in your application under the ‘Finance’ section. 

Applications must include the minimum supporting documents listed on our ‘How to Apply’ webpage, including a curriculum vitae (CV), and a reference to the project ‘TRACTION-SF-25’. Incomplete applications received after the advert closing date may not be considered for interview. 
 
The selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help make a decision on your application. 

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