Funded PhD Opportunity: Working with World Rugby to Reduce Head Impacts

Shape the Future of Player Welfare in Global Rugby

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact on one of the world’s most high-profile sports?

The Carnegie School of Sport at Leeds Beckett University is offering a fully funded PhD studentship in partnership with World Rugby, the global governing body for the sport. This unique opportunity will place you at the forefront of applied research aimed at reducing head acceleration events (HAEs) and improving player welfare and performance across international rugby.

This studentship is ideal for an ambitious researcher who wants their work to influence real-world coaching practice, policy, and performance environments at the highest level of the game.

Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University
In collaboration with World Rugby
Application Deadline: 19 January 2026
Start Date: 1 March 2026
Mode: Full-time (3 years)
Funding: UK Home fees + stipend
Places Available: 1

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About the Project

The successful candidate will contribute to the development and evaluation of a Head Impact Reduction Framework, working closely with:

• Elite coaches and performance staff

• World-leading researchers

• International rugby stakeholders

Over the course of this three-year PhD, you will be embedded in a vibrant applied research environment while supporting World Rugby’s global commitment to improving player safety. The outcomes of this research will help inform coaching strategies, player development pathways, and international policy, with impact far beyond academia.

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Why Study at the Carnegie School of Sport?

The Carnegie School of Sport is internationally recognised for research that delivers real-world impact. Our work spans:

• Head impacts and concussion

• Talent development systems

• Ethical coaching and safeguarding

• Gender equality in sport

• Sporting integrity and public health

Our culture is built on collaboration, knowledge exchange, and tackling complex applied problems alongside industry partners. As a doctoral researcher, you will be fully supported within a dynamic and interdisciplinary research community.

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Location and Study Environment

• Primary location: Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University (LS6 3QS)

• Travel: Some travel may be required for data collection and applied research activities

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Key Details at a Glance

• Qualification: PhD

• Duration: 3 years (full-time)

• Funding: UK Home tuition fees and stipend

• Start Date: 1 March 2026

• Application Deadline: 19 January 2026

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Apply and Find Out More

Further details, including project overview, eligibility requirements, funding information, and application guidance, can be found via the application pages.

Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss the project informally with the supervisory team (where possible):

• Professor Ben Jones – Professor, Carnegie School of Sport

• Dr Anna Stodter – Senior Lecturer, Carnegie School of Sport

• Dr Greg Roe – Senior Research Fellow, Carnegie School of Sport

(Please note that availability may be limited during the university Christmas closure period.)

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Take the Next Step

This is a rare opportunity to combine doctoral study with global sporting impact. If you are passionate about applied research, athlete welfare, and shaping the future of rugby, we encourage you to apply.

Apply now and be part of research that changes the game.

APPLY HERE

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