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Senior Specialist - Sports Science (Human Movement and Performance)

Location: Zurich

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Innovation

In short

Sports Science is the engine of innovation at On. You will design and carry out high-impact research, in the field and in the lab, to define the next frontier of athlete performance, training load optimization, and footwear interaction. Bridging the gap between cutting-edge physiology and product execution, you’ll collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of sports scientists, coaches, and product creators to translate physiological data into a competitive advantage. Your mission is to elevate athlete performance, investigate the metabolic and energetic impacts of advanced footwear concepts, and pioneer novel load-monitoring methodologies by pushing the boundaries of sports science. As a Sr Specialist, you will report to the Senior Lead of Sports Science on the Sports Science team.

Your Mission

Pillar 1: Human Performance & Physiological Research Lead advanced physiological research to optimize human performance. You will design frameworks to analyze systemic fatigue, recovery dynamics, and training load, establishing running economy and rigorous athlete monitoring as the core scientific foundation of our elite sports science agenda.
Pillar 2: Product & Footwear Innovation Translate complex physiological insights into product development. You will investigate athlete-product interaction, analyze footwear effects on running performance, and apply biomechanics to guide advanced concept development and validate next-generation performance footwear.

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Your story

PhD in Physiology, Sports Science, Exercise Science, or Kinesiology with a strict focus on performance physiology, metabolic optimization, or running economy.
3+ years of progressive working experience in an elite sports science environment, high-performance training center, or corporate innovation setting focused on athlete tracking and testing.
Proven track record of studying running economy, metabolic cost, or physiological efficiency, specifically evaluating how external tools or footwear characteristics (e.g., cushioning, bending stiffness) alter athlete mechanics and energetics.
Deep expertise in developing and executing rigorous testing methodologies to monitor internal/external training load, physiological strain, and recovery dynamics in agile, fast-paced environments.
Expertise in advanced physiological research tools (e.g., metabolic carts/VO2 testing, portable gas analyzers, blood lactate testing, NIRS, and core temperature sensors) with the flexibility to integrate custom wearable technology and digital sensors as you see fit.
Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, R, or other relevant data analysis software for processing large, time-series physiological datasets and training load metrics.
Entrepreneurial mindset and a strong ability to drive independent research agendas while operating seamlessly within an interdisciplinary team.
Excellent time management, prioritization skills, and the agility to balance immediate athlete/testing support with long-term, high-impact research goals.
Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills; ability to translate complex physiological data into clear, actionable insights for athletes, coaches, and cross-functional teams.
Action-oriented through execution with a continued growth mindset. -Fluent in English (written and spoken).

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About the Team

The Sports Science Lab (SSL) is an innovative team working to convert cutting-edge theories into exceptional performance products. Our team consists of a great mix of different backgrounds and experiences which blend into a lively, high-energy environment. We’re quick to support each other on research projects as we strive to execute high-impact research. By bridging the gap between controlled laboratory data and real-world athletic performance, we ensure that every insight we uncover leads to a measurable advantage on the field.

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Dina

Footwear Testing Lead

We touch every product that's being made because we bring the connection to the human being. So while everyone's excited about products, materials and colors, we go and say, “okay, so what does this actually do for the human?”

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What we offer

On is a place that is centered around growth and progress. We offer an environment designed to give people the tools to develop holistically – to stay active, to learn, explore and innovate. Our distinctive approach combines a supportive, team-oriented atmosphere, with access to personal self-care for both physical and mental well-being, so each person is led by purpose.

On is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a work environment that is fair and inclusive, where all decisions related to recruitment, advancement, and retention are free of discrimination.

Build the better you

What to expect

We want to set everyone up for success, so here’s the lowdown on how we hire. Our process is a two-way street – bringing you into our culture, while helping us learn how you think.

Our full process can last about eight weeks from application to offer, because we care about getting it right. These steps explain how we usually do things.

Before you get started, feel free to consider if you want to work with us. Strange question? Well, we give people a lot of space to navigate their day-to-day and that style isn't for everyone. We want you to be passionate about what you do and be sure this is the right fit. Because when skills and passion combine – it creates that 'Wow' moment.