Cambridge United are hiring a Lead Academy Sport Scientist...
The Lead Academy Sport Scientist will work closely with the Head of Academy Performance and Assistant Academy Manager to deliver first-class sport science support to Academy players from U9–U16, supporting the Professional Development Phase where required.
This role will primarily involve leading and coordinating age-appropriate, evidence-based physical development programmes, delivering pitch- and gym-based sessions, monitoring wellbeing and training load, and managing player testing and data analysis. The successful candidate will play a key role in helping players progress through the Academy pathway while ensuring consistent communication with coaches, the medical team, and wider Academy staff.
Key Job Responsibilities:
- Lead and implement the Sport Science programme for Foundation Phase and Youth Development Phase players
- Deliver pitch- and gym-based physical development sessions for U9–U16, including Elite Development and Emerging Talent Groups
- Monitor growth, maturation, wellbeing, and training load to inform player development
- Collect, analyse, and report player data, maintaining records in KitmanLabs
- Support matchday preparation, including warm-ups, conditioning, and recovery
- Develop the Bio-Banding Programme and support transition from Youth Development to Professional Development Phase
- Contribute to retain/release decisions using objective player data
- Deliver educational content to players, parents, and coaches on Sport Science, Strength & Conditioning, and nutrition
- Collaborate across all Academy departments to support holistic player development
- Attend meetings and undertake other reasonable duties as directed by the Head of Academy Performance and Assistant Academy Manager
Person Specification:
- BSc in Sports Science or Strength & Conditioning
- Emergency First Aid in Football (EFAiF)
- Enhanced DBS & FA Safeguarding Children Certificates
- Experience working in elite sporting environments, preferably in football academies
- Knowledge of long-term athlete development, football periodisation, growth, and maturation
- Full UK Driving License
- Desirable: MSc in Sports Science/S&C, UEFA Coaching Badges, UKSCA/BASES/NSCA Accreditation
How to Apply:
Interested applicants can click here to apply. Please ensure a CV, Cover Letter, and completed Application Form is submitted. For a full Recruitment Pack, please click here.
The application deadline is Tuesday 25 November 2025. Interviews will take place the week commencing 1 December 2025, with a start date of 1 January 2026.
Cambridge United FC is committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all staff and applicants. We aim to create a supportive and inclusive environment in which all individuals can make best use of their skills, free from discrimination or harassment.
We do not discriminate on the basis of age, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or political belief, trade union membership, gender, gender reassignment, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, sexual orientation, disability, socio-economic background, or any other characteristic protected under the Equality Act 2010.
