primary challenge that should be overcome to maximise performance and health outcomes as well as ensure better long-term adherence.
To address these challenges, this PhD project aims to identify resistance training configurations that deliver meaningful mechanical stimuli while more precisely managing the acute energetic, neuromuscular, and psychological cost. The overarching premise is that such configurations, which better account for inter- and intra-individual variability, will yield more repeatable and predictable acute responses. Consequently, they are expected to be better tolerated and more sustainable, ultimately supporting long-term engagement and physical development across diverse adult populations.
Key project objectives:
- Quantifying variability in training outcomes: We will use systematic reviews and meta-analyses to quantify the inter- and intra-individual variability in acute responses and longitudinal adaptations to resistance training, while concurrently exploring how age- and sex-related differences in key muscle qualities and force–velocity–power characteristics influence functional capacity, performance, and quality of life.
- Mechanistic profiling of resistance training configurations: We will experimentally profile the acute energetic, neuromuscular, biomechanical, and psychological cost of different set structures and autoregulation strategies, specifically exploring how individual variability influences acute training responses.
- Translation to long-term training and functional outcomes: We will implement a multi-week supervised training intervention to determine whether these precise configurations successfully navigate individual variability to yield superior longitudinal adaptations in physical performance, health-related characteristics, and long-term exercise adherence.
- Integration and dissemination: We will integrate these findings to develop a conceptual framework and an interactive Shiny web application that visualises mechanical, energetic, neuromuscular, and psychological costs alongside predicted individual functional adaptations.
It is anticipated that the outputs of this interdisciplinary research will directly inform anyone interested in more personalised resistance training monitoring and prescription, including sport scientists, strength and conditioning coaches, physiotherapists, athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and members of the general public. The theoretical underpinning and novelty of the research will contribute significantly to the academic fields of exercise physiology, biomechanics, and sports psychology, building both theoretical advances and real-world impact.
Supervisory Team: The candidate will be supervised within the Department of Health, Sport, and Wellbeing by Dr Ivan Jukic (Principal Investigator), Dr Graeme Sorbie, and Professor David Lavallee. Queries on this project should be directed to Dr. Ivan Jukic (i.jukic@abertay.ac.uk).
Entry Requirements
Candidates must have, or expect to obtain, a first-class or upper second-class honours degree in Sport and Exercise Sciences, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, Strength and Conditioning, Sport Psychology, or a closely aligned discipline. We are looking for an independent, enthusiastic, and driven candidate with an understanding of resistance training methodologies and exercise prescription. Applicants should have experience in designing and running experimental studies, research methods, statistical analysis, and publishing in peer-reviewed scientific journals. For applicants who are non-native speakers of English, the University requires IELTS of 7.0 (with no band less than 6.5) or an equivalent qualification accepted by the Home Office.
Funding Notes
A PhD studentship that comprises tax-free stipend of £21,805 (increasing in line with UKRI per annum), tuition fees paid, and a generous study package (e.g., limited research consumables, travel budget, and training when appropriate) each year for 3 years. The studentship is fully funded for 3 years. An extension of funding for a further 6 months is available, contingent upon the candidate completing 70 hours of teaching per year during the initial 3 years.
