Research Scientist - Tactical and Occupational Performance Institute

About UsGeorgia Southern University is the state's largest and most comprehensive center of higher education south of Atlanta. With nearly 150 degree programs at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels, Georgia Southern has been designated a Carnegie Doctoral/R2 "high research" university and serves more than 29,500 students from all 50 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico as well as 106 nations.With three vibrant campuses - the Statesboro Campus, the Armstrong Campus in Savannah and the Liberty Campus in Hinesville - Georgia Southern offers a dynamic environment which encourages learning, discovery and personal growth. The University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and has earned special accreditation from professional and academic associations that set standards in their fields.Georgia Southern is an influencer and intellectual catalyst in southeast Georgia, a rapidly expanding region that is home to international companies such as Hyundai, Gulfstream and JCB, as well as the Port of Savannah and Georgia Ports Authority. With a focus on hands-on learning, Georgia Southern is supporting the demand for highly skilled workers by providing academic excellence and creative innovation in a supportive student-centered environment that empowers the next generation of leaders to succeed.Beyond an ideal location, there is a place for you to work in an exciting environment abounding with opportunities for personal and professional growth. Named one of the Best U.S. Colleges by The Wall Street Journal, Georgia Southern is nationally ranked for the caliber of its programs and services. Georgia Southern University has been recognized by Forbes as one of "America's Best-In-State Employers" for 2025.LocationArmstrong Campus - Savannah, GADepartment InformationDepartment of Clinical ScienceJob SummaryThe 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. This position involves designing and conducting studies in human performance optimization, injury prevention, rehabilitation, and human factors engineering for military personnel. Areas of research currently supported within the TOP Institute include biomechanics, exercise physiology, rehabilitative medicine and injury mitigation, and factors related human performance. The scientist will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, and contribute to evidence-based practices that enhance tactical readiness and resilience.This position is time limited and 100% sponsored-funded; therefore, continued employment is contingent upon availability of grant or contract funding.Employment is contingent upon funding.ResponsibilitiesDesign 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 collectionParticipate in development of research protocols that may include biomechanical, physiological, and psychosocial assessmentsCollaborate with tactical athletes, healthcare providers, and human performance personnel to translate research into practicePrepare manuscripts, technical reports, and presentations for scientific and military audiencesEnsure compliance with ethical standards and institutional review board (IRB) requirementsSeek external funding and manage research grants when applicable Required QualificationsEducational RequirementsTerminal doctorate (PhD, DSC, etc.) in Exercise Science, Biomechanics, Kinesiology, Physiology, or a related field or a Masters degree (with a thesis requirement) may be acceptable if accompanied by a strong record of research and external funding Required Experience Demonstrated experience conducting health and human performance researchStrong statistical analysis and data interpretation skillsDemonstrated ability to write and publish peer-reviewed research Preferred QualificationsPreferred Educational QualificationsPhD in Exercise Science, Biomechanics, Kinesiology, Physiology, or a related field Preferred Experience Experience working with military, tactical populations, or industrial workforce populationsFamiliarity with wearable technology and field-based performance monitoringExpertise in advanced biomechanical modeling or computational analysisProven track record of securing research fundingStrong interdisciplinary collaboration skillsKnowledge of injury prevention strategies and return-to-duty or return-to-work protocols Proposed Salary$87,211 - $110,000This is an exempt position paid on a monthly basis.Required Documents to AttachResumeCover LetterTwo (2) Professional References Knowledge, Skills, & AbilitiesABILITIESConsistently exhibit engaging customer serviceAbility to support various constituencies served by the UniversityProven proficiency with computers including Microsoft Office, Google, and/or applications as required for specific position KNOWLEDGE Adhere to University policies and procedures to meet Institutional goals and support University's mission for student succesUnderstanding of statistical analysis software SKILLS Effective communication (verbal and written), organizational and human relations skills Apply Before DateOpen Until FilledApplication review may begin on May 4, 2026.Contact InformationFor more information or questions about a job posting, please contact the Department of Human Resources by phone at (912) 478-6947 or by email at hrservice@georgiasouthern.edu .For technical support, please call the USG Service Desk at (877) 251.2644, or email support@usg.edu .USG Core ValuesThe University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct .Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653 .Conditions of EmploymentOffers of employment are contingent upon completion of background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with Georgia Southern University, as determined by Georgia Southern University in its sole discretion, confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Applicants may be subject to a pre-employment drug test. Offers are made expressly subject to the applicable federal and state laws, to the statutes, rules and regulations of this institution and to the Bylaws and Policies of the Board of Regents (BOR) of the University System of Georgia (USG), which are available for your inspection upon request. Legally authorized to work in the United States for the duration of employment without assistance from the University.Must be able to perform duties and responsibilities with or without reasonable accommodation.Georgia Southern University is a Tobacco and Smoke-Free Community.Proof of valid Driver's License upon hire and throughout employment.Employment contingent on availability of soft grant/contract funds.Equal Employment OpportunityGeorgia 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: (912) 478-6947.Other InformationMust be able to perform duties and responsibilities with or without reasonable accommodationWork generally performed in an office environmentWorkweek may occasionally extend beyond 40 hoursTravel may be requiredEvening and weekend work may be requiredTravel: plane/car/van/bus (Occasional travel may be required)Working with high stress situationsWork performed in indoor and outdoor environmentsExposure to noise, distractions, unpredictable behaviors, and/or to bio-hazardous materialMay be required to maneuver items weighing up to 25 pounds with or without reasonable accommodationMay be required to maneuver items weighing up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodationStand, bend, walk and lift as needed throughout the day Background CheckStandard + Education & DMV