Australian Catholic University (ACU) and VueMotion are offering one full-time PhD scholarship to undertake sport science research using artificial intelligence to quantify athletic performance.

Sports performance research

The project aims to validate and enhance the use of artificial intelligence and two-dimensional motion capture for assessing human movement. By developing robust two-dimensional analysis systems, this project seeks to provide a rapid, cost-effective method to capture and assess human movement in diverse settings, with the goal of enhancing performance and minimising injury risk.

ACU has collaborated extensively with the Australian AI company VueMotion to develop accurate markerless motion capture systems. This involves comparing data collected from smartphone cameras with data from reliable marker-based 3D capture systems to ensure accuracy and reliability. Successful validation will unlock opportunities for applications such as evaluating human performance in running, jumping, hopping, and other physical activities, impacting sports performance analysis, healthcare, and rehabilitation.

The PhD will focus on developing markerless motion capture for assessing human movement. The scholarship is available for a high-performing candidate who has a particular interest in human movement assessment, strength and conditioning, and sports technology. The candidate should have a particular interest in working with athletic populations with a focus on speed enhancement. Furthermore, the successful candidate will work alongside sports technology partners at VueMotion to provide cutting edge sport science research.

Scholarship summary

 
Benefits
  • An ACU PhD Stipend Scholarship of $32,192 per annum (indexed annually); and
  • An ACU Tuition Fee Scholarship valued at c. $30,000 per annum.
Study mode Full-time, on-campus
Location ACU Blacktown Campus. The candidate will be embedded within the new Blacktown Exercise and Sports Technology hub.
Duration Up to 3.5 years
Commencing Second half of 2024
Supervisors

The successful applicants’ supervisory team will include:

Host

Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury and New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre

The Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury and New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre aims to advance knowledge in the areas of performance, recovery, injury, and new technology in the sporting domain, using established and developing laboratory and applied research techniques. The SPRINT Research Centre focuses on the complex relationship between physical development, training, and athlete performance, and places a strong emphasis on findings that directly translate into the real world. ACU provides the SPRINT Research Centre with world-class research infrastructure that facilitates large-scale research studies. The research environment is outstanding in terms of resources (world-class research facilities, infrastructure support, research support staff with experience in collecting data for large-scale projects), intellectual capital (critical mass of world-class researchers, postdoctoral researchers, international visiting scholars and collaborators, external linkages), and research mentoring and PhD supervision.

Discover the SPRINT Research Centre

Industry partner

VueMotion

VueMotion is an innovative technology company specialising in cutting-edge motion capture and augmented reality solutions. Leveraging advanced sensors and real-time data processing, VueMotion provides precise tracking and analysis of human movements, enabling applications across various fields such as entertainment, sports, and healthcare. Their flagship product, the VueMotion Capture System, integrates seamlessly with existing workflows, offering unparalleled accuracy and flexibility for users ranging from animators and game developers to sports scientists and medical professionals.

In addition to its motion capture technology, VueMotion has developed a suite of augmented reality tools designed to enhance user experiences and interactions. These tools allow for the creation of immersive environments and interactive applications, making it easier for businesses to engage with their audiences in novel and impactful ways. The company's commitment to innovation and user-centric design positions it as a leader in the intersection of technology and human movement, driving advancements that shape the future of digital interaction and analysis.

Visit the VueMotion website

Eligibility

ACU PhD program

Scholarship criteria

Essential requirements:

  • Highly motivated, with a strong interest in the development of athletic performance and the use of sports technology
  • Experience working with athletes
  • Excellent English written and verbal communication skills.

Desirable skills:

  • Experience in writing publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals
  • Experience with technology associated with athletic performance assessment (e.g., VICON, Force Plates, Global Positioning Systems)
  • An exercise and sports science, physiotherapy, clinical exercise physiology, or engineering background.
Conditions

How to apply

Applications close: 11:59 pm (AEST), Friday 4 October 2024

To be considered for these scholarships, applicants must submit all documentation required for an application to the PhD program at ACU, as detailed in the 'How to Apply' instructions, plus:

  • A CV detailing relevant academic and practical experience; and
  • A cover letter detailing demonstrated interest and/or experience in the program of research described.

Interested candidates should contact Assoc Prof Grant Duthie before submitting an application for the PhD program and this scholarship.

Email: grant.duthie@acu.edu.au

Why choose ACU?

Australian Catholic University is a world-leading research university and has strengths in exercise performance, injury, and sports technology. Research excellence at ACU is founded on the principles of social justice and the common good and attracts leading experts, students and collaborators from across the globe.

Explore research at ACU

Have a question? Contact the Graduate Research School

grad.research@acu.edu.au

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