(MRes) – Characterising the Physiological Demands of Cyclo-cross | Gravel Racing | Winter Mountain Biking (Project ID SAS0222)

About the Project

Cyclo-cross combines off-road cycling with intermittent bouts of running, often requiring athletes to dismount, carry, and remount their bikes on varied and technically demanding terrain. Despite its popularity and long-standing tradition, cyclo-cross remains underrepresented in the scientific literature compared to other endurance disciplines such as road cycling (Faria, Parker, & Faria, 2005) and mountain biking (Impellizzeri & Marcora, 2007; Stapelfeldt et al., 2004). The limited research available highlights the need for foundational descriptive studies to inform future experimental work and enhance training and race preparation strategies (Bossi et al., 2018). Accordingly, this project aims to characterise the performance demands of cyclo-cross racing through the collection of field-based data, ideally incorporating both power output and heart rate measurements, to establish a practical reference for training and performance analysis.

Gravel has emerged as a rapidly growing cycling discipline, occupying a distinct position between traditional road cycling and mountain biking (Smith, Smith, & Côté, 2025; Schuerger et al., 2024). Competitive events typically take place over mixed terrain and extended distances, often featuring sustained efforts interspersed with short, high intensity surges due to changes in gradient, surface conditions, or tactical dynamics. Despite its increasing prominence, particularly in elite and mass-participation formats, gravel racing remains under-researched compared to road cycling (Faria, Parker, & Faria, 2005) and cross-country mountain biking (Impellizzeri & Marcora, 2007; Stapelfeldt et al., 2004). A better understanding of the competitive demands of gravel is thus essential to support evidence-based training, racing strategy, and performance analysis. Accordingly, this project seeks to characterise the gravel discipline through the collection and analysis of field-based data, ideally incorporating power output and heart rate metrics.

Winter mountain bike racing presents a distinctive set of physiological challenges, owing to the combination of high-intensity intermittent efforts, technical terrain, and environmental stressors such as cold temperatures (Nimmo, 2004; Castellani et al., 2021). A prime example is the Strathpuffer, a 24-hour mountain bike endurance event held annually in the Highlands of Scotland, right in the heart of winter (https://strathpuffer.co.uk). Despite its popularity, there is currently no research addressing the specific logistical, physiological, and performance demands of this race. This project aims to extend the existing mountain biking literature (Impellizzeri & Marcora, 2007; Stapelfeldt et al., 2004; Reinpõld, Bossi, & Hopker, 2022) by shedding light on these aspects, with the goal of informing targeted training strategies and enhancing race preparation and performance.

The experimental design for these projects is flexible and open to discussion but will involve outdoor data collection, potentially in adverse weather or real-world racing conditions. They are particularly well suited to students with experience in any cycling discipline and a strong interest in applied physiology and performance analysis.

An MRes is an ideal route to gain experience in scientific research. These programmes are shorter than a full PhD but still offer valuable experience in project management and direction. You will have the chance to apply the skills you already have while also learning and using new practical and analytical techniques. An MRes is particularly suitable if you are looking to explore or transition into a new subject area, or if you are considering different career paths or academic research options. These programmes also help prepare you for roles that require research experience, including working within professional teams or in large organisations such as the NHS or other healthcare providers.

If you undertake this research project, you will work either full-time for 12 months or part-time for 20 months. The initial weeks will be dedicated to refining the project to align with your interests and aspirations. You will be part of the School of Applied Sciences, where you will receive comprehensive support throughout your studies, including training and events hosted both locally within the school and by our Research, Innovation, and Enterprise events team. Bespoke training will be provided to help you develop both your research and transferable skills.

Within School of Applied Sciences, you will have access to a range of leading facilities and expertise, including the Mountain Bike Centre of Scotland. You will join a vibrant and growing community of postgraduate research students at the university, with access to workspace and social space in our recently refurbished researcher community suite.

Academic qualifications

A first degree (at least a 2.1) ideally in sport and exercise science or related subject, with a good fundamental knowledge of exercise physiology and statistics.

English language requirement

IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online.

Essential attributes:

• Experience of fundamental research methodologies in exercise physiology, including experimental design, data collection and analysis.
• Willingness and physical capability to spend extended periods outdoors in challenging weather conditions as required for field-based data collection.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully recruit participants for research studies or volunteer participation events.
• Competency in the use of physiological measurement equipment such as ergometers, power meters, gas analysers, and heart rate monitors.
• Knowledge of current theories and practices in sports science, particularly related to off-road cycling disciplines.
• Practical experience in any cycling discipline.
• Good written and oral communication skills.
• Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project.
• Good time management.

Desirable attributes:

• Prior involvement in field-based research data collection.
• Experience using statistical software for data processing, analysis, and visualisation.
• Involvement in published scientific work.

PLEASE APPLY VIA THE FOLLOWING LINK https://evision.napier.ac.uk/si/sits.urd/run/siw_sso.go?Li7JJriJehDCOCkvaJp2SRVPPqzmF5e3HaFVqV3N8cVKWOIm2b

Please quote the application reference SAS0222 on your form.

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

• Completed application form
• CV
• 2 academic references, using the Postgraduate Educational Reference Form (Found on the application process page)
• A personal research statement (This should include (a) a brief description of your relevant experience and skills, (b) an indication of
• What you would uniquely bring to the project and (c) a statement of how this project fits with your future direction.)
• Evidence of proficiency in English (if appropriate)

Funding Notes

This is for self-funded applicants only.