Self-Funded PhD Opportunity in Sports Integrity (Ref: SSEHS26-SF-002)

About the Project

Shape the future of sports integrity with a PhD at Loughborough University where world-leading research meets real-world impact. As a global leader in sport-related research, Loughborough offers a dynamic and supportive environment for doctoral study in sport integrity.

Our research spans critical areas including gender equity, disability sport, safeguarding, and sport management with initiatives such as the Women in Sport Research and Innovation Hub; the UNESCO Chair in Sport Physical Activity and Education for Development; Sport, Climate and Nature Hub; the Peter Harrison Lab for Disability Sport, and our Inclusive Para Sport Strategy driving transformative change. From exploring barriers to participation for disabled youth to advancing thinking in safeguarding in sport, our interdisciplinary teams collaborate with national and international partners to challenge inequalities and promote access for all. Whether you're passionate about empowering underrepresented communities, influencing policy, or innovating sport integrity practices, Loughborough provides the ideal platform to make a lasting difference and create better futures together.

Supervisors

• Dr Ed Cope - e.cope@lboro.ac.uk
• Dr Oliver Hooper - O.R.Hooper@lboro.ac.uk

Tuition fees for 2026-27 entry

• UK fee - £5,238 Full-time degree per annum
• International fee - £29,500 Full-time degree per annum

Fees for the 2026-27 academic year apply to projects starting in October 2026, February 2027 and July 2027.

UK tuition fees for 2026/27 are currently to be confirmed pending the release of the UKRI recommended rates. Once published, these rates will be subject to formal approval by the University before being confirmed.

Opportunity Details

• Target Start Date: October 2026
• Full time or part time available.
• Open to UK and international applicants.

How to Apply

We welcome discussions with candidates interested in joining the world's leading institution for sport-related subjects (QS World Rankings).

• Step 1: Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Dr Ed Cope or Dr Oliver Hooper using the contact email address to discuss research interests and funding sources, you may also be asked to provide a CV and academic transcripts.
• Step 2: Following an informal discussion, applicants are invited to make a formal application on the Loughborough Website.