Lead Researcher, Footwear Research, Innovation

The Nike Sport Research Lab (NSRL) Footwear Research team is a multidisciplinary group of scientists, engineers, and innovators dedicated to advancing athlete performance through world-class research. Reporting to the Footwear Senior Director, the role partners with researchers and product innovators, collaborates across Innovation and Product Creation, and provides leadership and mentorship to Senior Researchers. The role leads cutting-edge research programmes at the intersection of biomechanics, sport science, and innovation, generating athlete insights, advancing research methodologies, and influencing performance footwear from concept through validation.

• Partner with Principal Researchers to define and execute research strategies addressing athlete performance and injury-related questions.
• Mentor and guide Senior Researchers in study design, execution, data analysis, and interpretation to elevate scientific excellence across the team.
• Collaborate closely with Product Innovators, designers, engineers, and cross-functional partners throughout the Product Creation process to ensure research findings inform product decisions.
• Design, conduct, and analyse laboratory and field-based biomechanical studies using advanced research technologies and testing methodologies.
• Develop and implement new research methods, analytical workflows, and data-collection processes that improve efficiency and expand scientific capability.
• Serve as a subject matter expert for biomechanical testing equipment, software platforms, data-analysis tools, and research best practices across the Nike Sport Research Lab.
• Translate complex scientific findings into clear, compelling recommendations that influence footwear concepts, prototypes, and final products.
• Represent Nike research externally through participation in scientific conferences, industry events, and professional networks while staying at the forefront of emerging research and technology trends in sport performance and biomechanics.

• 5+ years of experience conducting biomechanics, human performance, engineering, or related research.
• Master's degree in Biomechanics, Engineering, Kinesiology, Human Factors, Ergonomics, or related field; any suitable combination of education, experience and training will be accepted.
• Advanced expertise with motion capture systems, force platforms, pressure-measurement technologies, and wearable sensing solutions.
• Strong programming and analytical capabilities, including biomechanical data processing, modelling, visualisation, and workflow development.
• Experienced biomechanical researcher who combines scientific rigour with inventive problem-solving.
• Deep expertise in human movement science, experimental design, and advanced data analytics.
• Passion for translating research into meaningful product innovation.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative environment, balancing independent research leadership with cross-functional partnership to influence performance footwear from concept through validation.
• Comfort operating sophisticated laboratory technologies, building analytical tools, and transforming complex findings into clear, actionable recommendations.
• Curiosity, adaptability, and technical leadership.
• Ability to manage multiple research programmes effectively.
• Skill in influencing diverse audiences, mentoring teammates, and driving evidence-based innovation that helps athletes perform at their best.

• Experience conducting research within a product innovation environment.
• Python and Databricks experience.
• Experience translating scientific research into consumer products.
• Knowledge of footwear development processes.