https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-p9d56-180b35b
ποΈ Womenβs Football Hub Podcast β Exploring ACL Injury Research with Erin Griffiths
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Episode Overview
In this episode, Carolyn Kent welcomes a special co-host, Emily Howarth, an MSc Physiotherapy student, for her first podcast appearance! Together, they interview Erin Griffiths, a PhD researcher working with Manchester United on ACL injury risk factors in women’s football. Erin shares her academic journey, her transition into research, and what it’s like conducting an industry-based PhD in a professional football environment.
Whether you’re interested in sports science, women’s football, injury prevention, or pursuing a PhD, this episode has valuable insights on navigating academia and sports research.
π Key Topics Discussed
πΉ Erinβs Background & Research Journey β How she moved from an MSc in Medical Sciences to a PhD focused on ACL injuries in women’s football.
πΉ Why Women’s Football? β The gaps in research and why she chose to focus on female athletes.
πΉ Challenges in PhD Research β Ethics, adapting research methods, and working in an elite sports environment.
πΉ ACL Injury Risk Factors β Monitoring muscle strength, movement quality, and hormonal changes in female footballers.
πΉ Industry-Based PhD vs. Academic PhD β Working within a professional football club while conducting research.
πΉ Funding & Application Process β Advice for students considering a PhD, including securing funding and writing strong proposals.
πΉ Balancing Research & Personal Life β How Erin manages the demands of PhD research, club work, and her own well-being.
π’ Key Takeaways
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Building Relationships is Key β Researching in a professional club requires strong communication skills.
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Expect Research to Evolve β Initial plans often change, so adaptability is crucial.
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PhDs are Challenging but Rewarding β You need to be passionate about your topic to sustain long-term motivation.
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Womenβs Football Needs More Research β Now is the time to contribute to evidence-based practices in the sport.
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Networking is Essential β Use LinkedIn and reach out to professionals in your field.
π Connect with Our Guest
π LinkedIn: Erin Griffiths (Search her name!)
π§ Listen & Subscribe
π Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Podbean
π’ Follow Womenβs Football Hub for more insightful episodes on research, injury prevention, and performance in womenβs football.
π² Connect with us on Social Media!
π Twitter: @_WFootballhub
πΈ Instagram: @Womens.Football.Hub
π₯ TikTok: @Womens.Football.Hub
ποΈ Interested in PhD research or ACL injury prevention? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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