Biomechanics Research Manager

Superfeet•Ferndale, WA

18h•$90,000 - $105,000•Onsite

About The Position

At Superfeet, we’re Designed for movement. Built to change lives. That’s not just our mission, it’s the energy we bring to everything we do. As our Biomechanics Research Manager , you will be an integral part of the Product and Innovation team, responsible for conducting and managing research on all aspects of the Superfeet product line. You will seek to answer questions and provide context on the function and performance of existing products, new products and new materials. You will conduct the formalized testing of Superfeet insoles and other competitive products, to ensure the integrity and function of “Superfeet Shape” is maintained in all Superfeet products - with a focus on the measuring the performance they bring to every level and type of athlete. You will serve as a resource to Superfeet’s Product, Education and Marketing teams to help bring to life relevant biomechanical and material insights. You will develop creative and innovative research solutions that will advance the utilization of the current and future Superfeet product lines to help keep athletes everywhere moving.

Requirements

Demonstrate a successful background in the testing and evaluation of athletes
Exhibit knowledge of and experience in use of biomechanical measurement systems for analyzing human movement (e.g., 3D motion capture, inertia measurement unit (IMU), instrumented force/pressure measurements, muscle electromyography (EMG), indirect calorimetry, musculoskeletal modeling, finite element modeling for soft tissues)
Experience with data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, Python)
Possess and demonstrate a thorough understanding of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics of human movement, biomechanical principles and experimental design and statistical methods
Possess and demonstrate a thorough understanding of the technical aspects of footwear and the ability to integrate this knowledge into research design
Display excellent verbal and written communication skills that are able to make complex topics simple and more easily understood
Possess and demonstrate excellent large, medium and small group presentation skills.
Exhibit excellent interpersonal skills that inspire and build trust, resulting in effective cross-departmental working relationships in all areas of the company.
Possess a thorough understanding of and ability to utilize Microsoft Office Suite: Teams, Word, Excel, Outlook, & PowerPoint
Embrace and live the Superfeet Mission
Possess an advanced graduate degree (PhD or similar). in Biomechanics, or related field including Kinesiology, Physiology, Exercise Science or Human Movement Science plus 3-4 years of relevant work experience (footwear industry experience preferred)

Responsibilities

Plan, execute and manage all biomechanical and performance testing (e.g., plantar pressure measurement, 3D motion capture, IMU, EMG) including subject preparation, data collection, data analysis and development of reports
Identify biomechanical trends, concepts and/or findings that result from research projects you lead. Present and teach the new findings to provide guidance and context to the product, marketing, sales teams and education teams
Identify new, innovative ideas and develop creative research studies that will investigate all aspects of our products (e.g. materials, design features, shape, etc…)
Ensure proper documentation and record-keeping of research protocols, data, and findings
Oversee participant recruitment and scheduling for research studies, ensuring compliance with ethical guidelines and informed consent procedures
Oversee the maintenance of research equipment, ensuring that all instruments are calibrated and functioning properly
Stay updated with the latest advancements in biomechanics research and apply relevant findings to ongoing projects
Oversee, plan and execute a comprehensive wear testing program for all product concepts, in-line products and active product development projects
Serve as a technical advisor/resource to the Brand Marketing/Creative team in the development and communication of the Superfeet message in marketing materials