Lead Researcher - Footwear Research, Innovation

WHO YOU’LL WORK WITH

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, you will partner with researchers and product innovators, collaborate across Innovation and Product Creation, and provide leadership and mentorship to Senior Researchers.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

The ideal candidate is an experienced biomechanical researcher who combines scientific rigor with inventive problem-solving. They bring deep expertise in human movement science, experimental design, and advanced data analytics, along with a passion for translating research into meaningful product innovation. This individual thrives in a collaborative environment, balancing independent research leadership with cross-functional partnership to influence performance footwear from concept through validation. They are equally comfortable operating sophisticated laboratory technologies, building analytical tools, and transforming complex findings into clear, actionable recommendations. The successful candidate demonstrates curiosity, adaptability, and technical leadership while effectively managing multiple research programs. They are skilled at influencing diverse audiences, mentoring teammates, and driving evidence-based innovation that helps athletes perform at their best.

• 5+ years of experience conducting biomechanics, human performance, engineering, or related research, preferably within a product innovation environment
• Master’s degree in Biomechanics, Engineering, Kinesiology, Human Factors, Ergonomics, or related field. Will accept any suitable combination of education, experience and training
• Advanced expertise with motion capture systems, force platforms, pressure-measurement technologies, and wearable sensing solutions
• Strong programming and analytical capabilities, including biomechanical data processing, modeling, visualization, and workflow development; Python and Databricks experience preferred
• Experience translating scientific research into consumer products and knowledge of footwear development processes preferred

WHAT YOU’LL WORK ON

You will lead cutting-edge research programs that shape the future of performance footwear. Working at the intersection of biomechanics, sport science, and innovation, you will generate athlete insights, advance research methodologies, and influence products that serve athletes around the world.

• 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 analyze 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

We offer a number of accommodations to complete our interview process including screen readers, sign language interpreters, accessible and single location for in-person interviews, closed captioning, and other reasonable modifications as needed. If you discover, as you navigate our application process, that you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please complete the Candidate Accommodation Request Form.