PhD Sports Science

RICHMOND FOOTBALL CLUB IN COLLABORATION WITH SWINBURNE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

ABOUT THE ROLE:

The PhD candidate is responsible for undertaking a three-year research project in collaboration with Swinburne University of Technology and Richmond Football Club. This role contributes to the advancement of knowledge in sport science and data analytics while supporting applied performance and recruitment operations within the Club. Additionally, the position provides practical servicing support to coaches and staff, ensuring the integration of research outcomes with real-world applications in player performance, rehabilitation, and talent identification.

STIPE END:
$35,000–$47,500 p.a. (tax-free), depending on the scholarship awarded, for the full duration of the PhD.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1.Research Project Delivery:
The successful candidate will undertake and complete the PhD research project as agreed upon by the Club and Swinburne University of Technology, including development of a 4-page research proposal by October 2025.Areas of particular interest:

-Complex systems analysis in AFL football

-AI/Generative Technology

-Predictive analytics

2.Performance Support:
Assist performance and football coaches in gathering and managing data related to player rehabilitation.

3.Recruitment Support:
Collate, organise, and analyse data to assist the recruitment department with talent identification and future player profiling.

Note:
Servicing requirements should not exceed 10 hours per week, ensuring research outcomes are integrated with practical applications across the Club.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR:

1. First Class Honours in sport science (with an interest in statistics and/or programming), mathematics, computer science, or a related field.
2. An interest in applying data and analytics to sport performance and talent identification.
3. Evidence of research capability, with publication in a Q1 journal preferred.
4. Strong organisational and communication skills with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
5. Motivation to balance academic research with applied servicing requirements within the Club.

ABOUT US:

Richmond Football Club is one of the largest clubs in the Australian Football League, proudly rooted in our rich history and tradition. As we honour our past, we're focused on building a Strong & Bold future – both on and off the field– through living our purpose of Belonging, Thriving and Winning.

We understand the power of sport to connect people, and at the heart of the Club's purpose is being involved with our community. At Richmond, culture is paramount, and the Club is committed to developing its people in a supportive environment. Belonging, Thriving and Winning is not just about connecting with fans and members, but about staff, players and coaches connecting with each other with humour and care, through storytelling and authenticity, to build genuine relationships.

WHY WORK FOR US:

• Award-Winning Culture
  : Join an organisation that is an Australian HR Employer of Choice finalist and a Flexible Work Champion.
• Flexibility
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  Enjoy a flexible work environment with options like flexible hours, work-from-home options, a relaxed dress code and the ability to observe public holidays that align with your cultural beliefs.
• Inclusive & Belonging:
  We are deeply committed to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, ensuring that everyone feels valued and respected, no matter their background or abilities
• Work-Life Balance
  : We believe in a 'people first' culture, where your personal and professional life can thrive together.
• Growth & Development:
  Your growth is our priority with professional development opportunities tailored to suit your goals.
• Wellbeing & Fun
  : We work hard but know how to have fun, fostering a high-performance, caring culture that values holistic wellbeing.
• Community Connection
  : Make a positive impact in the wider community and engage with our charity partners by supporting the Alannah and Madeline Foundation or get involved in one of our community programs across Korin Gamadji or the Bachar Houli Foundation.
• Perks & Benefits
  : Money can't buy experiences, enjoy a range of perks, including discounts through our sponsors

Click here to view our Employee Value Proposition (EVP) to find out why you should work at our Club

OUR COMMITMENT TO THE SAFETY AND WELLBEING OF CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE:

The Richmond Football Club is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all children and young people. We exclusively hire individuals committed to fostering a child safe culture, irrespective of their role, and it is essential that all our staff understand their responsibility in relation to child safety. Individuals will require pre-employment checks, including a valid Working with Children Check for this role.

APPLICATIONS:

Please note this position is To apply, please submit the following:

1. CV
2. Cover Letter – including a 300 word project overview of your desired project
3. Referees: Two academic referees and two personal referees.

Applications
close 5pm September Please submit all above documents to Harry Banyard ).

The successful candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student at Swinburne University and will collaborate with Richmond Football Club, with recruitment managed through Swinburne University.