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

Pillar 1: Human Performance & Physiological ResearchLead 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

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)

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

Just by the banks of the Limmat you’ll find our largest global hub in Zürich West – On Labs – where you can hike up 12 floors through our custom-built spiral trail

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
• 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

Ready to dig into the details?This second interview will be held with your future manager and will focus on the specifics of the job. Together you’ll delve into your unique skills and experiences and how they could be relevant at On. It's also a time to assess how you might feel working side-by-side. Bring any questions you have about the job, the team or anything else you might like to know – this is an open forum

Are we a good fit?We’ll get together internally to share our feedback and decide if we’re a match. We know that job searching is a big time investment, so it’s not a decision we take lightly. It’s also time for you to reflect on the experience – are we the right place for you?No matter the outcome, we’ll give you meaningful feedback

You'll start by submitting your application to a specific role