The Department of Sport Science and Nutrition at Maynooth University is recruiting a PhD candidate for a fully funded, full-time four-year studentship in collaboration with Special Olympics Ireland
Academic Supervisors: Dr Liam Sweeney (Primary Supervisor; Maynooth University), Professor Kieran Moran (Maynooth University), and Dr Hayley Kavanagh (Technological University Dublin)
Project Title: Athlete Development Pathways in Intellectual Disability Sport: A Mixed-Methods Study of Participation, Development, and System Structures in Special Olympics Ireland
This 4-year PhD (full stipend + fees covered) offers an opportunity to contribute to applied research informing inclusive sport systems and athlete development pathways.
The successful candidate will be based at Maynooth University and will work closely with Special Olympics Ireland, gaining experience in:
- Athlete development in intellectual disability sport
- National sport system structures
- Inclusive sport participation and policy
- National and International competition environments
Full details & application link: https://lnkd.in/daB2WSF6
Informal enquiries are very welcome and can be directed to: Liam.Sweeney@mu.ie
Closing date: 1 July 2026 17:00