New PhD student with a focus on skiers' performance

Who are you?

I am originally from Sävar in Västerbotten. I eventually moved to Luleå where I studied Engineering Physics at Luleå University of Technology – I chose a broad education to create many future opportunities. While I was studying, I played floorball in the elite series and won a bronze medal in the Swedish Championship in 2004 with IBK Boden!

I have previously worked in the car and truck industry as well as in the hydropower, construction and construction safety industries. When I saw the advertisement for this PhD position that combines human biology and physics with technology, I felt that it was perfect for me!

What is your PhD project about?

In short, my PhD project is about investigating how external forces affect skiers' performance in both cross-country and roller skiing. It can be about factors such as course profile, material and snow properties, but also the skier's individual conditions.

Why is it important?

My first project is about investigating rolling resistance in roller skis. There is something missing at the moment – how the skis stack up against each other. It is simply about fairer conditions in a competition context.

Do you ski yourself?

I competed until I was 13–14 years old, then I didn't ski for over a decade until I figured out that I was going to do Vasaloppet and started training for it. Since then, I have mainly skied at exercise level. Since I live near the ski track, it is easy to get out.

How do you see the future?

My first goal is to do a PhD and then see what opportunities arise after that. I also have 20 percent teaching in my position. It feels extra fun to be able to teach as I have previously thought about becoming a high school teacher. It will be exciting to have the opportunity to pass on knowledge. Now I'm looking forward to getting started! I think I will enjoy working at the Sports Tech Research Centre very much – there is a very nice atmosphere here!