Nike Performance Innovation Lead
On-siteAtlanta, Georgia, United States
Job Summary
Conduct applied research and deliver biomechanical assessments for 27 U.S. Soccer National Teams across youth through senior levels. Design multi-year research agendas, build longitudinal datasets, and present findings to stakeholders and at professional conferences. Develop standardized assessment protocols, support coaching decisions with evidence-based insights, and facilitate cross-sport innovation for Nike-sponsored athletes. Manage lab procurement, evaluate emerging technologies, and establish data governance protocols for the Performance Innovation Lab. Operate independently within a contracted one-year term with potential for extension.
Required Qualifications
- Doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) in Sport Science, Kinesiology, Biomechanics, Human Movement Science, Sport Physiology, or a closely related discipline
- Minimum of 8 years of combined experience in applied sport science research and elite sport performance support
- At least 3 years in a high-performance sport environment (e.g., professional club, national federation, institute of sport)
- Experience working across both men's and women's sport programs
- Demonstrated expertise in biomechanical assessment methodologies, including experience with force platforms, 3D motion capture, inertial measurement units, and/or pressure mapping systems
- A peer-reviewed publication record that reflects both scientific rigor and applied relevance
- Experience designing and managing multi-site or multi-team research projects
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to translate complex scientific concepts for coaches, medical staff, and organizational leadership
- Ability to operate independently with minimal supervision while navigating a complex, multistakeholder organizational environment
Desired Qualifications
- Experience in elite football/soccer environments at the club or international level
- Familiarity with the demands and structures of national team programs, including athlete availability constraints and multi-team coordination
- Experience with longitudinal athlete monitoring and developmental tracking across age groups
- Experience working with advanced soccer tracking technologies, including player surface interaction technology
- Background in or exposure to sport technology innovation, product development, or industry academic partnerships
- Proficiency with data management platforms, statistical software, and visualization tools used in applied sport science
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