Change of direction (COD) ability is a critical physical quality in football, underpinning performance during both attacking and defensive actions. Previous research has demonstrated significant relationships between lower body force producing capabilities and COD performance, with measures such as peak force and rate of force development (RFD) identified as important determinants. However, the relative importance of these neuromuscular characteristics remains unclear, particularly in high-performance youth populations.
The Dynamic Strength Index (DSI), derived from the ratio of force production during a countermovement jump (CMJ) to maximal force production during an isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), provides a practical method of profiling athletes according to their force and explosive strength characteristics. Despite the increasing use of DSI within applied sport settings, limited research has investigated how DSI profiles relate to both quantitative measures of COD performance and qualitative assessments of movement strategy.
Understanding whether maximal force, RFD, or a combination of both is most influential for COD performance may allow practitioners to develop more targeted strength and conditioning interventions. Furthermore, examining movement quality through the Change of Direction and Cutting Movement Assessment Score (CMAS) may provide additional insight into how neuromuscular qualities influence movement strategies during directional changes.
Accordingly, this project aims to investigate the relationship between Dynamic Strength Index, derived neuromuscular characteristics, change of direction performance and movement strategy in elite youth soccer players.
Academic qualifications
A first degree (at least a 2.2) ideally in Sport and Exercise Science (or comparable) with a good fundamental knowledge of applied physiology, strength and conditioning, and training/testing.
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.
Essential attributes:
- Ambitious, hardworking, and enthusiastic.
- A genuine team player.
- A willingness to develop communication skills and relationships to liaise effectively with key stakeholders of the project.
- Good written and oral communication skills.
- Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project.
- Good time management and organisation.
Desirable attributes:
- Experience of working with youth athletes within a professional football club or other sport.
- Experience of managing an applied research project.
- Knowledge and experience of performance technologies (GPS, TeamBuildr, VALD, etc.)
This successful applicant will also be required to undertake a part-time paid role at Hibernian FC’s academy, gaining practical experience and supporting the delivery of sport science provision within the boy’s academy for approximately 15 hours per week. This delivery will require an ability to work during evenings aligned to academy training hours.
The successful applicant will commence their studies on 1st October 2026. However, the ability to start the applied role within the Hibernian academy as soon as possible is desirable.
PLEASE APPLY VIA THE FOLLOWING LINK https://evision.napier.ac.uk/si/sits.urd/run/siw_sso.go?Li7JJriJehDCOCkvaJp2SRVPPqzmF5e3HaFVqV3N8cVKWOIm2b
When applying, please quote the application reference SAS0231 on your form.
APPLICATION CHECKLIST
- Completed application form
- CV
- 2 academic references, using the Postgraduate Educational Reference Form (download)
- 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)
