Lead Researcher, Footwear Research, Innovation

Nike • Beaverton, OR

3d

About The Position

The Lead Researcher will lead cutting-edge research programs that shape performance footwear, working at the intersection of biomechanics, sport science, and innovation. The role generates athlete insights, advances research methodologies, and influences products for athletes around the world. The position reports to the Footwear Senior Director and works with researchers, product innovators, and teams across Innovation and Product Creation, while providing leadership and mentorship to Senior Researchers.

The ideal candidate is an experienced biomechanical researcher with strong expertise in human movement science, experimental design, and advanced data analytics. They translate research into product innovation, lead research independently, collaborate across functions, operate laboratory technologies, build analytical tools, and communicate clear, actionable recommendations. The role calls for curiosity, adaptability, technical leadership, effective management of multiple research programs, and the ability to influence diverse audiences and mentor teammates.

The position is part of the Nike Sport Research Lab (NSRL) Footwear Research team, a multidisciplinary group of scientists, engineers, and innovators focused on advancing athlete performance through research. Nike offers accommodations during the interview process, including screen readers, sign language interpreters, accessible single-location in-person interviews, closed captioning, and other reasonable modifications as needed.

Requirements

• At least 5 years of experience conducting biomechanics, human performance, engineering, or related research.
• Master’s degree in Biomechanics, Engineering, Kinesiology, Human Factors, Ergonomics, or a related field; suitable combinations of education, experience, and training will be accepted.
• 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.
• Ability to lead research programs, collaborate across functions, mentor researchers, manage multiple programs, and communicate findings as actionable recommendations.

Nice To Haves

• Research experience within a product innovation environment.
• Python and Databricks experience.
• Experience translating scientific research into consumer products.
• Knowledge of footwear development processes.

Responsibilities

• 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 with Product Innovators, designers, engineers, and cross-functional partners throughout the Product Creation process to ensure research informs product decisions.
• Design, conduct, and analyze laboratory and field-based biomechanical studies using advanced research technologies and testing methodologies.
• Develop and implement research methods, analytical workflows, and data-collection processes to improve efficiency and expand scientific capability.
• Serve as a subject matter expert on 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 at scientific conferences, industry events, and professional networks, and stay current with emerging research and technology trends in sport performance and biomechanics.

Benefits

• Interview accommodations are available, including screen readers, sign language interpreters, accessible single-location in-person interviews, closed captioning, and other reasonable modifications as needed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior