Research Scientist - Tactical and Occupational Institute

Research Scientist
- Tactical and Occupational Performance Institute

Job

Location:

Georgia Southern
- Savannah

Full Time, Regular

The Research Scientist will lead and support research initiatives within the Tactical and Occupational Performance (TOP) Institute focused on improving the health, fitness, and performance of Warfighters and other tactical athletes. The role involves designing and conducting studies in human performance optimization, injury prevention, rehabilitation, and human factors engineering for military personnel. The position is time‑limited and 100% sponsored‑funded; employment will continue only as long as grant or contract funding is available.

• Design and carry out research studies related to the health, fitness, and performance of tactical athletes (military, law enforcement, fire service, and other first‑response personnel)
• Utilize biomechanics or exercise physiology lab equipment for data collection
• Participate in development of research protocols that may include biomechanical, physiological, and psychosocial assessments
• Collaborate with tactical athletes, healthcare providers, and human performance personnel to translate research into practice
• Prepare manuscripts, technical reports, and presentations for scientific and military audiences
• Ensure compliance with ethical standards and institutional review board (IRB) requirements
• Seek external funding and manage research grants when applicable

Educational Requirements

• Terminal doctorate (PhD, DSC, etc.) in Exercise Science, Biomechanics, Kinesiology, Physiology, or a related field, or a Master’s degree (with a thesis requirement) if accompanied by a strong record of research and external funding

Required Experience

• Demonstrated experience conducting health and human performance research
• Strong statistical analysis and data interpretation skills
• Demonstrated ability to write and publish peer‑reviewed research

Preferred Educational Qualifications

• PhD in Exercise Science, Biomechanics, Kinesiology, Physiology, or a related field

Preferred Experience

• Experience working with military, tactical populations, or industrial workforce populations
• Familiarity with wearable technology and field‑based performance monitoring
• Expertise in advanced biomechanical modeling or computational analysis
• Proven track record of securing research funding
• Strong interdisciplinary collaboration skills
• Knowledge of injury prevention strategies and return‑to‑duty or return‑to‑work protocols

$87,211 - $110,000 (exempt, paid monthly)

Georgia Southern University provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, religion, age, veteran status, political affiliation, or disability. Individuals in need of reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act to participate in the search process should notify Human Resources.

• Work generally performed in an office environment; occasional travel and expanded work hours may be required.
• Travel may be required by plane, car, van, or bus.
• Work may involve standing, bending, walking, and lifting as needed.
• May require handling of items weighing up to 25 or 50 pounds.
• Work may be performed in indoor and outdoor environments exposing the employee to noise, distractions, unpredictable behaviors, and/or bio‑hazardous material.
• Evening and weekend work may be required.