Director, Footwear Research, Nike Sport Research Lab - Innovation

WHO YOU’LL WORK WITH The Nike Sport Research Lab is a multidisciplinary team of researchers, innovators, and scientists who lead with science to make athletes* measurably better. The NSRL Footwear Research team conducts research that provides insights leading to innovative footwear and measurable benefits for athlete.

This Director manages researchers and collaborates with Innovation Product Creation, Mechanical and Materials Testing, technical teams, stakeholders, and external research partners. You will report in to the Sr. Director, Applied Footwear Research.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR Nike is looking for a versatile, creative leader with deep expertise in footwear science, research methods, and advanced data analysis tools, who will help shape product innovations across sport. You will lead a research team of technical biomechanics experts who turn complex research insights into clear strategies, validated assessments, and actionable product concepts.

You will bring the scientific judgment to protect research integrity while responding to business and product creation needs. You will partner with Principal Researchers to lead interdisciplinary teams through aggressive timelines, align stakeholders around a shared vision, and communicate technical findings to diverse, nontechnical audiences.

You will build strong relationships, set priorities, and create the conditions for researchers and partners to deliver their best work. What you bring: Master’s degree in human movement science, biomechanics, kinesiology, engineering, biomedical engineering, ergonomics, or related field.

Will accept any suitable combination of education, experience and training. 10+ years of relevant experience. Deep understanding of footwear science and demonstrated ability to turn research insights into program or product concepts.

Experience leading interdisciplinary teams, aligning stakeholders, and delivering projects or products on aggressive timelines. Demonstrated ability to balance r