Real-time data-driven decision making in the Australian Football League

About this project

Harness data to improve athletes’ outputs

If you are keen to pursue a career in artificial intelligence and computer modelling and passionate about maximising athletes’ capabilities, the University of South Australia – Australia’s University of Enterprise – is offering a hands-on project-based PhD within the Industrial AI Research Centre (IAI), in partnership with the Adelaide Football Club. 

Our project builds on prior research conducted in collaboration with the Adelaide Football Club to develop an advanced, real-time fatigue prediction system for Australian Rules football. 

Heart rate monitors, a useful tool for predicting fatigue, can only be used during training. So, we will develop sophisticated predictive algorithms, deep learning and statistical models to leverage a wealth of historical training data to accurately estimate fatigue on game day. 

We aim to develop a fatigue prediction model integrated into a purpose-built dashboard to support decision-making during live matches. This is because while self-reported metrics of fatigue are commonly used in the literature, defining and recognising fatigue based on objective data, such as that from a heart rate monitor, remains largely unexplored. 

Often, real-time decisions are subject to cognitive biases due to mental heuristics. So, we also want to focus on optimising the visualisation design to mitigate these biases, drawing on existing literature on cognitive bias taxonomies with an emphasis on ethical decision-making. These visualisations will not only support decision-makers but also serve as educational tools for industry practitioners.  

Our project will also model team composition and strategy, which has been underexplored in the context of real-time game dynamics. A team is comprised of players on the field and on the bench, across four main positions, acting in numerous strategic roles. 

Modelling this system can provide coaching staff with deeper insights into how team strategy affects game outcome. This information could be integrated into the fatigue prediction dashboard, providing coaching staff with real-time analysis of the effectiveness of strategic decisions during the game.

You will be based in the IAI Research Centre. We boast an enviable range of sophisticated equipment, facilities and resources, as well as world class experts in their fields. You will benefit from a dynamic and collegial environment and be encouraged to share and seek feedback on your research. 

Close collaboration with our industry partner, the Adelaide Football Club, will provide you with valuable hands-on industry experience. It will also give you the opportunity to hone your communication skills and start building your professional network. 

What you’ll do

In this project-based research degree, you will, as part of an interdisciplinary team of sports scientists and data scientists, develop a validated definition of player fatigue based on GPS and heart rate data. 

You will also help develop a predictive model capable of accurately estimating player fatigue in real-time using live GPS data.  The goal is to develop software that integrates data analysis languages such as R and Python with real-time capture of GPS data using systems such as Catapult.

We will also support you in developing an interactive, real-time dashboard designed to mitigate cognitive biases of the decision-maker and uphold AI ethics, using psychology literature, semiology and intelligent use of retinal variables.

You will be required to carry out a comprehensive statistical analysis of team composition and strategy derived from historical game and training data, to guide coaching strategy and team selections.

Where you’ll be based

You will be based within IAI. We bring together experts from across computer sciences to develop solutions for autonomous and augmented intelligence systems. We are a part of the global revolution in artificial intelligence, machine learning, Industry 4.0 and Internet-of-Things (IoT) technologies.
 
Our researchers work with organisations around the world to develop solutions that cater to their specific needs. We have worked with Siemens, BP Australia, Yokogawa Electric and more, growing these partnerships over time to continually design sophisticated AI-driven solutions. 

The Industrial AI Research Centre has the skills and knowledge to meet demand and lead the next technological revolution Financial Support

This project is funded for reasonable research expenses. Additionally, a living allowance scholarship of $35,200 per annum (2025 rate) is available to Australian and New Zealand citizens, and permanent residents of Australia, including permanent humanitarian visa holders. Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants will be eligible to receive an increased stipend rate of $52,352 per annum (2025 rate). A fee-offset or waiver for the standard term of the program is also included. For full terms and benefits of the scholarship please refer to our scholarship information.
 
Eligibility and Selection

This project is open to applications from Australian or New Zealand citizens, and Australian permanent residents or permanent humanitarian visa holders. International applicants are not invited to apply at this time.

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for entrance into a PhD. All applications that meet the eligibility and selection criteria will be considered for this project. 

The successful applicant is expected to study full-time and to be based at our Mawson Lakes campus in the north of Adelaide.

Essential Dates

Applicants are expected to start in a timely fashion upon receipt of an offer. Extended deferral periods are not available. Applications close on Tuesday 19 November 2024.